Invisible Hieroglyphics: iPad Finger Swipes Become Fine Art

fingerswipeOne man’s digit grease is another man’s work of art. New York-based Artist Andre Woolery partnered with Texas-based designer Victor Abijaoudi created these abstract designs by using popular iPad apps and games including Mail, Facebook, Twitter, Temple Run, Paper Toss, and Angry Birds.

I have noticed that the pattern of fingerprints varies depending on who in my family uses the iPad, and which apps that person uses, but it never occurred to me as I dutifully scrubbed away at the screen that these smudges could be beautiful or that anyone would try to preserve them.

Rather than cleaning their screens, the artists applied satin paper to the iPad, which soaked up the smudges. Add a bit of artistic wizardry and there you have it: an acrylic print suitable for decorating the nearest blank wall.

Naysayers who think, “I could totally do that,” should bear in mind that this artistic pair is as mindful of the process of creating their work as they are of the final product. The works in the series create a representation of how we use these commonplace apps, which adds a layer of meaning beyond the decorative final product.

Woolery said, “As the world becomes more digital, we pull further away from an analog, handcrafted world. However, the one remaining human component of the digital experience is touch. Our hands have become the communication conduit through devices with a series of taps, swipes, and pushes. Left behind are the oil-stained remains of finger smudges on a screen.” Abijaoui added, “Everyone is creative and everyone creates. Even if just with your fingers as you check your email.”

To own a print from this innovative commentary on the interplay between the digital and physical worlds, visit Andre Woolery Art. The site offers acrylic prints, signed acrylic prints, limited edition prints, and even iPhone cases.

[via Daily Mail]

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