Aquamedis – Water content of the human body, 2022, D.N.K.
link to the Video of the technical description of the work
Aquamedes* – Water content of the human body is a multi-layered piece that conveys the universal presence of water in the human body. It emphasizes the shared essence of this liquid among all individuals.
It is a piece that unifies people irrespective of their national, religious, political, sexual, or any other backgrounds and prompt contemplation on one of the fundamental living subjects: water
Day by day, humans contribute to water pollution in various ways. This ongoing environmental impact poses a direct threat to the lives and habitats of future generations. The drastic effects of this pollution can significantly impair the quality of life and disrupt the natural cycle of ecosystems.
A significant aspect of this problem lies in the fact that the human body is composed of a substantial amount of water, approximately 60-70%. Water contamination not only has direct consequences on the environment but also affects the health and well-being of humans themselves.
To raise awareness and illustrate the impact of human actions in a tangible and visual way, the group D.N.K. FILOART has developed the work Aquamedes – Water content of the human body. This innovative art project allows each person to visually experience their personal water content. Through interaction with a digital scale and a Plexiglas cylinder, an individual’s body water content becomes visible. This artistic intervention not only emphasizes personal responsibility for water usage but also creates an awareness of the shared responsibility to protect water as a vital resource.
Technical Description of the work: Aquamedes – Water content of the human body
The Aquamedes consists of a digital (Wi-Fi-enabled) scale, a Plexiglas cylinder, a water container, and two pump mechanisms for filling and draining water.
An important element of the installation is the digital scale, wirelessly connected to a network. This allows visitors to interactively participate in the action. When a visitor steps on the scale, weight data is transmitted to the computer, which then calculates the water content based on 70% of the measured weight.
The Plexiglass cylinder stands in front of the visitor and serves as a visible medium for the flow of water. An intricate pumping system moves water from the container into the cylinder, filling it with water in a short amount of time. After the visitor experiences the action, leaving the scale triggers the draining of the Plexiglass cylinder using a suction pump.
This interplay of technology, water, and interactive participation creates a unique artistic experience for exhibition visitors.
Info:Throughout the entire exhibition, the same water will be used for the installation.
User Manual for the Participatory Action of the Aquamedis
Participation in the Participatory Action:
-Every exhibition visitor has the opportunity to participate in this action by stepping on the scale.
Data Collection by the Scale:
-Once the visitor steps on the scale, weight data is transmitted to the computer.
Weight Calculation by the Computer:
-The computer calculates the visitor’s weight and determines 70% of this weight as the amount of water.
Water Filling of the Plexiglas Cylinder:
-A pump transports water from the water container into the Plexiglass cylinder in front of the visitor.
Observation of the Water Filling Process:
-Within a short time, the Plexiglass cylinder fills with water, representing 70% of the visitor’s weight. The visitor can visually perceive their body water content at this moment.
Draining of the Plexiglas Cylinder upon Leaving:
-Upon leaving the scale, the Plexiglass cylinder is drained using a suction pump.
Note: Please observe all safety guidelines and follow the instructions of the staff while participating in this action.
_____________________
*Aquamedes:
Aqua -lat. Water and Archimedes