Gom Jabbar
“Gom Jabbar” is a prototype for a haptic interface and installation. We wanted to allow visitors to experience a space to form a direct connection with an other-than-human entity. Inspired by the human interest in sharks, we wanted to explore the role of this apex predator in the Anthropocene. We wanted to think beyond and imagine what experiencing an empathic interaction with a shark could feel like.
Focusing on the structure of the shark's skin. We were inspired by the numerous evolutionary advantages sharkskin offers. Ranging from garlic graters to wetsuits, humans have begun to biomimetically take use of the advantages shark skin offers. Mimicking the unique structure of shark skin, our interface allows users to experience the sensation of touching a shark. Not as a tool but as a sensitive being. We want visitors to experience a sensual moment interacting with a synthetic other-than-human entity.
The installation features a biomimetic replica of shark skin. A tactile speaker amplifies the synthetic surface. Through our haptic interface using motion tracking, a digital representation of the shark's skin reacts to the user's touch and behaviour.
In our efforts, we aim to mimic the experience of touching a living creature through an abstract installation. The goal is to explore the human perception of sharks as predators and endangered animals, while we also want to examine the boundaries of creating a sensual experience by means of a haptic interface.
The Gom Jabbar is a fictional test created to determine whether an individual's awareness was stronger than their instincts. In our perspective it recalls the human approach to animals such as sharks. We are testing the users humanity as well: not through pain, but by a persons capacity to feel empathy and relate to non-human entity.
Students
Tommaso Poggi & Cyril J. Truninger
Mentors
Prof. Dr. Karmen Franinović
Antoine Bertin
Luke Franzke
Dr. Lyndon Alex Jordan
