Dousing for Dummies: Methods for Raising Public Awareness of Invisible Communication Networks

In this paper, we present a series of methods developed by the artist, Michelle Teran, for raising awareness of invisible spaces created by public wireless communication technologies. These methods include public performance, where participation is through a series of walks through the city, and workshops where participants engage in the design implications through a process of locating, examining and documenting some of these invisible networks. Overall, we explore methods and strategies for engaging the public, raising awareness of the limitations of their perception of communications technologies, and techniques that facilitate the debate on the rich opportunities that these invisible spaces might offer. Methods Artistic methods are employed to explore research questions that regard the social space generated intentionally, or most notably unintentionally through the use of widespread public wireless communication technology. 'Life: a user's manual' 1 is a series of public performances that examines the hidden stories captured by private wireless CCTV streams and how they intersect with the visible and spatial environment. 'Life: a user's manual' focuses on the use of wireless surveillance cameras within public and private places that transmit unencrypted analog audiovisual signal on the 2.4 Ghz frequency band. Easily intercepted using a consumer model video scanner, the captured, live images create a sequence of readings and views of the city and its inhabitants which are observed while walking through the streets.