ABSTRACT: “Mask Unmasked” is a speculative fiction that serves to complicate the idealist vision of transhumanism. The video explores a scenario where an expensive and biologically-dangerous computer-brain integration—or neurolace—has become a common reality in the United States. This new technology promises enhanced human intellect but at what cost? Until graduation, high school youth are forced to wear masks, a precursor to the neurolace implant. They hack their assigned masks to ensure privacy, informational access, and augmented reality without corporate and privatized invasiveness.

The project explores the myths, philosophies and social impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It is a result of critical research into how technologies will influence education and youth.  In this process we also developed a future pedagogical model centered around humanity.

Collaborators: Javiera Arenas, Amanda Astorga, & Erica Kermani

Facilitator: Transdisciplinary Design, Parsons School of Design

Role: Research collaboration, narrative design, animation, visual design

The creative journey began with our team mapping our interests in parallel with research to demystify artificial intelligence.

Scenario Building

Before solving for the future of transhumanism, the team developed a scenario based on politics, culture and economies. A guiding artifact came from Inventing the Future: Post Capitalism and a World Without Work by Nick Srnicek and Alex Williams. The timeline below carves a narrative where the video concept comes into perspective.

Ideation Phase

During the ideation phase of the process we grappled with ideas through sketching, material tinkering, prototyping, role playing, creative writing, storyboarding, narrative design, filming, and video editing. We were enthused about all the concepts and the most challenging part was choosing one idea. Narrowing done our idea came to our individual strengths and ideating only one scenerio.