“The idea of needing to unplug and disconnect is a feeling that we can all relate to,” explains Jamiel Laurence. But what if we can never really disconnect from life and live with complete freedom? Laurence has picked six images from the Google Arts & Culture archive that can help to decode the question “Do I have free will?” Take a look at why the artist chose these images (that is, if you believe in the freedom of choice).
By Nina LeenLIFE Photo Collection
Do I have free will? Dancer and choreographer Jamiel Laurence answers through images selected from the Google Arts & Culture archive.
Pull the plug
“The idea of needing to unplug and disconnect is a feeling that we can all relate to, as technology expands into every aspect of the human experience.”
Video game controller:Nintendo Super Famicom Video Game Controller (1990) by Nintendo Co., Ltd.The Strong National Museum of Play
The controller
“This particular controller model casts an unmistakable silhouette in video game culture, and so the generic controllers used in the film are based on this classic shape.”
War Horse - Production Photograph: Rehearsal with the Goose puppet (2007) by Goose Puppet by Basil Jones & Adrian Kohler (Handspring Puppet Company) and Photograph by Simon AnnandNational Theatre
The puppet master
“Long before we controlled our chosen avatar and characters in the video games we know today, the practical effects of puppetry achieved the same goal; a character controlled by another master.”
Olympic series, bobsleigh (1983) by Hans ErniThe Olympic Museum
Red vs. blue
“From board games to Olympic sports, teams divided by the colors of red and blue are a feature present across all competitive mediums.”
Kenyan Athlete (Unknown) by UnknownKenya National Archives
The race
“Similar to the many athletic fields, the dancers can be seen to run, jump, dodge, and even wrestle in partnered sections.”
Roll of new magnavar dielectric film used in slimvar 400kvar power capacitors being stressed and pulled to demonstrate superior physical strength. (Capacitor, Department, Hudson Falls, NY.) (1965-10-05) by General Electric CompanyMuseum of Innovation & Science
Invisible forces
“The creative style of seeking clear and visible directional resistance in the limbs and extensions from a seemingly unquantifiable and invisible source.”
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