Identity Grid

"Identity Grid" infinite generative animation, 2023, dimensions variable: HTML file

Blockchain introduced a new paradigm to art collection. It allowed open access, at the same time securing provenance and ownership. By that time, art had been treated as a store of value, which needed to be vaulted and preserved.

Why own art that everyone can see? Why own art that no one can see? Why own one, when you can have it all?

"Identity Grid" is a generative digital infinite animation in the form of an HTML file, programmed entirely with Vanilla JavaScript.

"Identity Grid" offers a unique ownership mechanics. Viewer will see the output that is strictly bond to their device. No data of the exact output is stored, neither on- nor off-chain. The only determining factor is the current state of the system setup. Once the algorithm runs, artwork instantly determines features of the output. This leads to the situation that every viewer will experience the personalized artwork of their own.

Viewer’s identity becomes a part of the artwork, making them an (un)aware co-creator. Identity is perceived as a set of features specific to the used device, that might seem irrelevant, but over time allow to create a very detailed image of a person.

Every day a user browses through websites on their device. Technology provides easy access to data, such as language, operating system, browser type, screen resolution, browser extensions, and many more. It all may sound irrelevant and unexceptional, but combined allows to create a unique digital signature.

Think of anonymity. What would you consider keeping a secret to prevent yourself from doxing? Your full real name? Your address? Your face? Your social security/passport/ID number?

There’s no need to know any of this information to build a digital identity. Then collect even more data, making the image more precise with every online action that is taken.

Now, the hash-named persona can be used to enhance product marketing, shape individual perspectives, or make behavior predictions. With a substantial amount of data, the persona’s owner may have a deeper understanding of you than you have of yourself.

With these thoughts, let’s return to the initial questions:

Why own what everyone can see? Why own what no one can see? Why own one, when you can have it all?

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Part of the Vertical Crypto Art Residency 6th Cohort exhibition.

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Interaction: [S] — save a 7680×4320 px PNG screenshot with a 1920×1080 px detail image [H] — enter custom hash (for variant investigation/display purposes) add ?uuid=XYZ to URL address to set a custom hash

Check console for technical details and traits/features.