Skin Database
SkinDatabase speculates on the possibility of DNA-digital data storage on human skin…
… which inquires an alternative relationship between the human body and our digital memories. It imagines that due to the data overload in the year 2040, hardware-based storage is not able to support striking data growth. Therefore, people start to archive data on the skin by taking advantage of the outstanding capacity and longevity of DNA-strands. It aims to open discussion on how fast developing DNA-editing technology such as CRISPR could make an impact on our daily routine and potentially shape new social norms.
The work comes with four parts:
MemoryTags: a generic-engineered synthetic skin tissue that transplant into the human body for data storage, which aims to invite audiences to reflect how our body needs to adapt to this alternative human-computer interaction.
TACTAG® machine: a converter that loads digital data into the human body through transplanted MemoryTags. It transfers binary codes into DNA strands by matching the sequence of code (00, 01, 10, 11) with A(Adenine), C (Cytosine), G (Guanine) and T (Thymine) and then make into a gel that can be applied to the body directly.
Embody: a monologue video piece showcases the experience of Ashely, a speculated TACTAG® user who uploads her memory on her body but ends up with unforeseen issues. It not only conveys our product concept design but also intrigues audiences to attend to the intricacy and complex risks behind using nucleic acid as a data storage medium.
TACTAG® manual: a brochure functions as an instructional manual demonstrating how to use the device as well as side effects that may occur. It aims to evoke audiences’ awareness of safety and ethics issues resulting from DNA-editing applications. user instructions, the possible side effects, and background information.
Shihan Zhang
Shihan Zhang is an interdisciplinary designer whose passion lies in challenging cultural stereotypes and social preconceptions through building experiences of future-present intersections. Her works are expanding technologies’ possibilities and extrapolating world conditions to address anthropocene challenges. Through a systematic and cultural lens, her works inspire conversation and empower her audience to reflect.
Her projects have been humbly recognized by FastCo.Company’s World Changing Ideas, WIRED Creative Hack Award (Japan), International Design Excellence Awards, Core77 Design Awards, 100 Design of the Year 2019 by Award360 (Asian), and etc. She also gave talks and exhibited works worldwide in Dutch Design Week, Toronto Design Week, IFTF 10 Year Forecast Summit, Stanford Foodinno Conference, Gray Area Art and Technology and etc.
Skin Database is an artwork under alterR.studio, cofounded by Shihan Zhang and Qinqin Yang, and they are currently members at NEW INC Creative Science track. alterR.studio is a multi-disciplinary research-based studio working on the intersection of art, design and technology. It focuses on speculating possible futures to address unseen issues and opportunities.
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Skin Database - video