DART 412 Portfolio

Artist's Statement
My name is Rachel Padnis and my portfolio dives into the intricate and ever-evolving domain of digital privacy, something very prevalent in our modern world. This is a landscape shaped by the constant advancement of digital technology. In our digitally interconnected world, it is apparent that the internet offers boundless resources, but ending the conversation there would put aside the fact that there are plenty of potential risks as well.

I was motivated to make a portfolio centered around this idea due to a dual passion of mine for Advertising and analytics. My exploration of digital privacy is fueled by a desire to understand the profound impact of online tracking and data collection on individuals' privacy as someone with a B.A. in Advertising, and a minor in Digital Media Trends and Analytics. As I progressed farther into my studies through my college years, I was surprised to uncover the extent of information collected about people online. This sparked my curiosity, so I aim to go beyond the discussion around of data collection and instead grapple with the broader implications of this practice. I have drawn some inspiration from Sidhu's "Doom Scrolling", Narciso Martinez, and John Hartfield, to create visually intriguing colleges.

Wires emerge as a recurring symbol in my portfolio, as metaphorical thread that binds together the intricate complexities of cybersecurity. Through meticulous craftsmanship and the incorporation of other broader kinds of symbolism such as pixelation, distortion, and eyes, each piece I create serves as a powerful visual narrative.

At its core, my project aspires to unravel the shifting paradigms, emerging challenges, and innovative solutions that define this realm. I found myself drawing upon insights from reputable sources like the Pew Research Center, which helped to illuminate prevailing sentiments surrounding the idea of data security through numerous studies, I found it helpful to convince viewers to reevaluate privacy in the context of their daily digital interactions, which I try to show through my work.

My artistic process has evolved and was continuously informed by ongoing research endeavors and recent events that serve as inspiration and guidance to my artistic vision. My project aims to foster greater awareness and understanding of the societal implications inherent in digital privacy, even the ethics of data ownership, consent, and the potential for algorithmic biases.

I have even highlighted real-life tragedies resulting from the lack of digital privacy serve as a reminder of the of online surveillance and data exploitation. I aim to spark greater awareness, accountability, and ethical responsibility in our digital age. Ultimately, inspiring meaningful strides towards safeguarding digital privacy rights for all individuals.