When we dream, our minds enter a theater of illusions, weaving together our life experiences. Could this be the direction of communication arts? Immersive technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) offer platforms to communicate and understand dream-like illusions in ways we never thought possible.
Expanding the Senses
Imagine a world where all our senses interface with computers—feeling gravity, resistance, taste, and smell transmitted directly to us. A media designer could create a virtual meal and, through a brain interface, instantly share it with others. This new form of communication could unlock a creative language based on the full spectrum of human experiences.
The Challenge of Authenticity
We must tread carefully in this new frontier. The digital world is malleable, allowing endless manipulation of content. AI technologies like deep fakes can create convincing images and videos, blurring the line between reality and illusion. This raises the challenge of distinguishing authentic experiences from manipulated ones.
Trust in a Plastic World
In this digital landscape, authenticity feels elusive. We may start questioning the truth behind what we see, hear, and experience through media. Deep fakes and fake news add to the uncertainty, making it difficult to trust the information we encounter online.
The Need for Balance
While we can discern right from wrong in our own lives, societal decision-making often rests in the hands of powerful entities, reducing our control over our future. We must question why we continue to invest in a flawed digital medium that may lead us away from truth.
A Return to the Physical World
It may be time for a renaissance in our connection with the tangible. As we navigate this digital age, investing in the physical aspects of life could bring balance. While digital media can be valuable, it should complement, not replace, genuine human experiences.
Embrace Authentic Experiences
As we emerge from the pandemic, let’s seize the chance to reconnect with the physical world. Attend art exhibitions, poetry readings, live performances, and cultural events to rekindle our appreciation for the arts and humanities. By engaging with the organic and tangible aspects of life, we can find a more authentic and fulfilling existence.
In our quest for authenticity, we have the opportunity to reshape communication arts and rediscover the richness of the physical world. Now is the time to explore new solutions. Let’s move away from the plasticity of digital illusions and embrace the beauty of the tangible reality around us.