ARTWORK DETAILS
David Aston
Attest you are human (Hanging in the balance)
Antique set of scientific scales and seven attest you are human dice
38 H x 31 W x 20 D CM
2020
FURTHER DETAILS
For Hanging in the balance I was exploring the parallel concepts of influence and resistance, engaging in a debate around the balance of our humanity and the increasing influence of technology. Questioning whether the current level of influence that technology exerts on us as individuals was appropriate. Whether its influence was counterbalanced and met with an equal human resistance to its more negative effects on our nature. Whether the balance has shifted and has done so in our favour. Whether the promise of convenience and free access has enriched life, or come at a cost, fundamentally changing the way we see ourselves, perceive the world, and interact with each other.
The sculpture, a cased set of antique scientific scales, symbolises this balancing act. The balance of influence and resistance taking place at the frontline of humanity and technology. Central to the work are two metal dishes, each containing attest you are human dice. But the scales are loaded. In one dish sits a single dice showing human. On the other sits a pyramid of six dice showing bots and robots.
The outcome is imbalanced, tipped in favour of technology. An outcome mirroring real life where technology has become pervasive and seeks to exert ever-increasing influence over our daily interactions and decisions.
Exhibitions:
2020 - Future Now with the Society of Scottish Artists
https://ssa.viewingrooms.com/viewing-room/9-sculpture-now/