Video Haptics and Erotics
Touch: Sensuous Theory and Multisensory Media, 2002, pp. 1-20
Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 2002
This essay examines how video can be haptic and explores the eroticism to which the haptic image appeals. Although many visual media are capable of these qualities, it is interesting to see how the electronic medium of video can have this tactile closeness, given that it is generally considered to be a distanced and "cool" medium. Through exploring the tactile qualities of video itself and the relationship between the viewer and the image, a multisensory or a fullness of experience is attempted. A visual erotics is examined as a respect for otherness and concomitant of loss of self in the presence of the other. Marks clearly examines sense perception and the levels of possible engagement within the medium of video and within the limits of visuality.
ITEM 2002.116 – available for viewing in the Research Centre
Videos, Artworks and Artists Cited
It Wasn't Love – Sadie Benning
Forward, Back, Side, Forward Again – Seoungho Cho
Pickpocket – Robert Bresson
Felicia's Journey – Atom Egoyan
... the 400 series... – Leslie Peters
In the Present – Phyllis Baldino
Nano-Cadabra – Phyllis Baldino
Sinar Durjana (Wicked Resonance) – Azian Nurudin
Bitter Strength; Sadistic Response Version – Azian Nurudin
Glass Jaw – Michael O'Reilley
Haptic Nerve – Dave Ryan
The Address of the Eye – Vivian Sobchack
Her Sweetness Lingers – Shani Mootoo
Measures of Distance – Mona Hatoum
Seeing Is Believing – Shauna Beharry
Diastole – Ines Cardoso