“ODE TO OBSOLESCENCE”

:ARTIST STATEMENT:

A visual representation of our relationship with technology, reflecting on the lifecycle of electronic devices, their programmed obsolescence, and the importance of e-waste recycling.

The piece utilizes eleven laptops, positioned on a metal plant stand and adorned with reflective fabric and LED strips to mimic a market stand, creating an aesthetic reminiscent of an electronic bazaar. Iridescent vynil is used to further enhance the reflective qualities of the installation, creating an eerie, otherworldly light show. The led light harkens back to the digital screens we are constantly exposed to, casting a haunting glow on the mass of discarded laptops.

By sourcing laptops and other components from online auction sites like eBay, the artist captures the essence of a secondary market that thrives on the disposal and repurposing of electronic goods. The installation becomes a mirror reflecting back on our collective electronic consumer habits, serving as both an aesthetic experience and a critique of programmed obsolescence and wasteful consumer habits.

The bargaining culture of eBay and other similar platforms is embodied within the art piece, reflecting on how we negotiate the worth of these electronic goods that were once deemed essential. The installation provokes questions about the lifecycle of our electronic devices, from their conception and production, through to their ultimate disposal or transformation into new forms – in this case, art.

“Ode To Obsolescence” is a testament to the dual nature of technology – as both an instrument of progress and a source of environmental concern. It underscores the need for a more conscious approach to electronic consumption and disposal while highlighting the potential beauty and artistic value hidden within our discarded devices. In transforming e-waste into an object of contemplation, the artist asks us to reconsider what we value and discard in the digital age.

:BIO:

Fabiola Larios, Interdisciplinary Artist, her work is focused on probing the convergence of technology, identity, and representation in the digital age. Utilizing machine learning, AI, net art, e-waste and computers, she endeavors to question our comprehension of the self and the influence of social media and the internet on our existence.

fabiola.io

instagram: @fabiolalariosm

Interview with Fabiola Larios: An Interdisciplinary Artist Breaking Boundaries

Interviewer: Haiiileen Founder and Director of Rainbow Oasis and Chroma Art Film Festival

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Haiiileen: Hi everyone. I have the pleasure of introducing a truly unique and talented artist today. Fabiola Larios, an interdisciplinary artist from Mexico. Fabiola, could you introduce yourself to our readers?

Fabiola Larios: Hello, I’m Fabiola Larios. I hail from Mexico and proudly wear the badge of an interdisciplinary artist.

Haiiileen: And you have such an eccentric and captivating energy about you!

Fabiola: Haha, yes, I guess you could say I’m a bit… unconventional.

Haiiileen: That’s what’s so exciting about having you with us. You bring a fresh, multidimensional perspective to art, spanning digital realms to physical manifestations. You’ve had multiple pieces at our festival, including films and a captivating e-waste sculpture. Could you dive deeper into your journey, your studies, and the inspiration behind your work?

Fabiola: Absolutely. My journey began in fine arts, and I transitioned to digital art to recreate paintings in my unique aesthetic. I started with collages on Photoshop, which later evolved into visual poetry and video editing. Over time, I found joy in creating visual representations for various artists, from ambient concerts to bars. Collaborating with others, especially in producing the audio for my pieces, has been rewarding. More recently, I’ve been experimenting with AI music.

Haiiileen: That’s truly fascinating. Your diverse range in art, from performance to video to sculptures, showcases your dynamic nature. How did you manage to traverse so many genres?

Fabiola: I’ve always had a passion for acting and directing movies. The desire to shape and reside in my own imaginative realm led me to direct my visual pieces. In essence, I like being in my world.

Haiiileen: And that’s evident. You seem to live and breathe your art, constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new mediums. Let’s delve into one of your pieces that stood out at the festival, the one which resonated as a “love letter.”

Fabiola: That particular film was a collaboration with my husband, who will discuss it in a subsequent interview. But I’d love to shed light on another piece: “Don’t Want to Be on the Internet.com.” This film addresses the issue of women being secretly filmed and ending up on inappropriate sites. It’s a commentary on society’s tendency to blame victims based on their attire, especially prevalent in Mexico.

Haiiileen: Such themes are sadly universal and not limited to any culture or ethnicity. Your art acts as a mirror, reflecting and critiquing societal norms. Having said that, let’s shift gears. How was your experience working with the Chroma Art Film Festival, and how do you envision its impact on Miami’s next generation of artists?

Fabiola: Chroma was an enriching experience. Being new to Miami, it connected me with numerous talented artists. The festival was a refreshing break from my digital immersion. The diverse spectrum of movies and installations introduced at Chroma was particularly invigorating.

Haiiileen: Thank you for the kind words, Fabiola. Chroma is about humanity, interaction, and connection, even in this digital age. Artists like you are pioneering the future of art. Before we wrap up, any final thoughts for our readers?

Fabiola: Every piece of art tells a story. I encourage everyone to remain curious, delve deeper into these narratives, and constantly push the boundaries of their creativity.