Seeing Mirror

Seeing Mirror (2021) is an interactive art installation that explores the modern definition of self as seen through everyday digital devices. It raises the question of how our devices “view” us and serves as a physical representation of face recognition features found on social media. A user standing in front of the mirror will see a digital overlay framing their face and tracking along with their movement.

As a third-year computer science student with a minor in studio art, I took on this project to develop my programming skills while still utilizing my creative expression. My research forced me to demonstrate problem-solving skills and introduced me to the field of machine learning through facial recognition.

I used this project as an opportunity to apply my artistic background, learn new skills, and create meaningful dialogue around digital identities. The mirror build consists of an LED monitor sitting behind a two-way mirror, blurring the line between natural reflections and a digital interface. It uses an onboard camera, paired with Google’s AIY Vision Kit, to track the digital border with viewers’ faces. Since the monitor sits behind a two-way mirror, only its brightest areas appear on the reflective side. Google’s API allowed me to program the display to remain black in all regions except the white border. This project is ultimately an interactive experience that creates a dialogue around privacy, machine learning, and online presence.

Chapman University’s Swenson Hall of Engineering eventually received the mirror as a donation.

Credits

Concept by Curren Taber

Faculty Mentor: Micol Hebron

Funded by Chapman CUE