Working Backwards

After the desk crit with both Ted and Patrick I've decided to take on a new approach to my FETs and the project as a whole. Initially I was struggling with assigning a function to my FETs, I don't what I wanted them to "do." Then I thought I choosing a site first would help me decide the function, unfortunately that too was unsuccessful. I felt as if I was choosing a site based on how versatile it was or even by if it was "cool" or not. Ted brought my attention to the fact that I have a "sensing" device. The FETs as unpredictable as they are react to something, therefore I should be using their reaction as a means of either mapping where in Point Douglas they are active or conversely, inactive. Thus my project for this installation will be a type of machine that detects and hopefully even records the presence of ether.

FET Circuit

For those interested in how to make an FET circuit, here is the link

More Sites

Cracks and Crevasses:
One possible installation idea was to make numerous FET mechanisms that could be installed into the many cracks found within Point Douglas. The intention behind this option would be to draw attention to these micro-worlds that are often overlooked. This idea however does not seem to incorporate my earlier research on ether.



Telephone Poles:
Another option was to begin to use the telephone poles and wire as my substrate. My hope was that the currents running through the wire would activate my FET. The problem surrounding this site would be accessibility. Also, if there is a constant charge running through the wire, it may turn on the FET and never turn off (or at least until the batteries die).



The Disraeli Bridge (Underpass):
The Disraeli Bridge passes over the eastern quadrant of the Point, specifically over Higgins Ave., Sutherland Ave. and the railroad. What interests my about this site is the space that it creates. Furthermore the residual build up underneath the bridge lends to my observations of decay and exposure. The problems that come with this site is working with it without looking suspicious and devising a way to incorporate the FETs.

Decay and Exposure

On my most recent walk through Point Douglas I was fortunate enough to see the demolition of the Manitoba Cold Storage Building on Higgins. It was kind of sad to watch it being torn down (not that I have any sentimental attachment to it) but it was also really beautiful it an odd way.

Finding Substrates and Textures in Point Douglas

Substrate:

1. The material or substance on which an enzyme acts.
2. Biology A surface on which an organism grows or is attached.

Texture:

1. A structure of interwoven fibers or other elements.
2. The distinctive physical composition or structure of something, especially with respect to the size, shape, and arrangement of its parts.
3. Distinctive or identifying quality or character.
4. The quality given to a piece of art, literature, or music by the interrelationship of its elements.

While looking for substrates and textures in Point Douglas I came across many surfaces that were in a beautiful state of decay. The years of weathering began to expose the true material of the area. The surfaces that I found were very honest, very real and in my opinion, reflected the essence of the Point.

Note: decay and exposure (character of Point Douglas) = texture


The following images are of potential sites I found within the Point, all of which demonstrate varying amounts of decay and exposure. The only question that I now ask myself is, do any of these sites embody what a substrate is?

Able Building


Fire Escape on National Lamp MFG. CO.

Abandoned Car Under Disraeli Bridge