‘IN-DEPENDENCE’ by Tanisha Pradhan

Thesis Abstract:

In-Dependence reflects upon how our devices have become an extension of our physical & mental selves, and the little devices in our pockets so psychologically powerful, that they change the very essence of our being with, our minds, and consequently, our behavior. The intervention strives to be a reality check; an experiment, nudging the viewer to question oneself & hopefully trigger a personal response; making one, more mindful of one’s relationship with technology. For, the first step to overcome a problem, is to acknowledge that there is, indeed, a problem!

We simultaneously lead a dual life. One in the physical, tangible world and another in the virtual, intangible world; thus ending up at crossroads where they meet. Our devices have become an extension of our physical & mental selves, and the little devices in our pockets are so psychologically powerful, that they change the very essence of our being; our minds, and consequently, our behavior. With the portal to escape always at our fingertips, we yearn to escape at the slightest hints of boredom. Like a nervous tick, we mindlessly reach for our phones, which leaves our minds distracted & frazzled. We need to reconnect with ourselves, to keep our sanity, to stop technology from completely consuming us and remember what it means to be present in the moment; for today, we are living our lives through our screens. And the first step to overcoming a problem, is to acknowledge that there is, indeed, a problem! This triggered the need for an intervention, predominantly targeting college students. An experiment, this intervention strives to be a reality check, nudging the viewer to question oneself & hopefully trigger a personal response; making one, more mindful of one’s relationship with technology.