Generating Infinite Tales
2023 - present
‘Generating Infinite Tales' originated from my personal curiosity. While working on the project Re:sort(2017-2022, photography), I had the opportunity to explore albums from the military days of veterans. The youthful years captured in the albums of these middle-aged men evoked a subtle mix of emotions in me.
Subsequently, as I delved into the continuity of time and memory, I became intrigued by how these memories could be reproduced in reality. This work emphasizes the process where information undergoes reproduction and mutations through multiple stages.
With the widespread use of compact cameras in the 1970s, people began documenting their memories through photographs, eventually normalizing this activity in modern society. However, these memories now find themselves traded on online platforms like eBay, transitioning into the possession of others.
The project 'Generating Infinite Tales' explores my curiosity about how randomly acquired vintage slide films from strangers intertwine and connect with the memories of different individuals.
Through experiments in the reproduction and mutation process of this information, I aimed to express how existing information and memories can connect and evolve in diverse ways.
Subsequently, as I delved into the continuity of time and memory, I became intrigued by how these memories could be reproduced in reality. This work emphasizes the process where information undergoes reproduction and mutations through multiple stages.
With the widespread use of compact cameras in the 1970s, people began documenting their memories through photographs, eventually normalizing this activity in modern society. However, these memories now find themselves traded on online platforms like eBay, transitioning into the possession of others.
The project 'Generating Infinite Tales' explores my curiosity about how randomly acquired vintage slide films from strangers intertwine and connect with the memories of different individuals.
Through experiments in the reproduction and mutation process of this information, I aimed to express how existing information and memories can connect and evolve in diverse ways.
Process Documentation
After presenting vintage slide films purchased through eBay to individuals, I requested them to choose seven photos. Depending on their preferences, they could either select films in real-time using a lightbox or leisurely appreciate and choose one image at a time through slide film projection.
Vintage films encapsulate the random memories of unknown individuals. Through the combination of each person's choices and the individual memories they hold, diverse and intriguing stories are regenerated.
Generating Tales
The interview process initially involved receiving written descriptions. After a certain period, a second phase of video interviews was conducted. Throughout this process, conversations with the interviewee delved into various topics, including the feelings before and after selecting the film, keywords, and more.
The compiled results from the two interviews with each participant are as follows. Through this process, I am collecting intriguing stories about how vintage slide films and individual private memories interact, utilizing various communication methods such as written, video, and verbal exchanges.
1. Wonjune Chung
Selection Criteria
On July 26, 2023, there was an incident where David Grusch, a former Air Force officer and a ex-operative of the U.S. intelligence agency, blew the whistle during a congressional hearing, stating that the U.S. government is recovering debris from UFOs and alien bodies for research.
As someone with a keen interest in science and space, I came across the following photo and it immediately reminded me of the recent congressional hearing in the United States. I found myself pondering questions like how the photo was taken and why it was necessary. It brought back memories of my childhood when I used to imagine scenarios like this. I wondered if directors or writers of science fiction movies or novels draw inspiration from real encounters or trustworthy agents when crafting stories about extraterrestrial beings.
With the desire to explore the possibility of finding clues related to extraterrestrial beings in the midst of numerous photos, I selected seven images.
Selected Films
Description :
On July 20, 1969, the day humans first set foot on the moon, three children watched the news on TV announcing humanity's arrival on the lunar surface. They came outside to gaze at the stars and discuss the news. One of the children excitedly claimed to have seen a red light on the moon, but the friends beside them dismissed it as unbelievable and ignored the statement.
Why : The light, as if bursting like a spotlight in the dark open field, cast an illuminating glow only on the children, creating a dramatic atmosphere. I chose this photo as the very first frame because I wanted to compose a sequence reminiscent of a movie. Moreover, the arrows drawn in the frame of this photo looked like a saucer shape (UFO).
Why : The light, as if bursting like a spotlight in the dark open field, cast an illuminating glow only on the children, creating a dramatic atmosphere. I chose this photo as the very first frame because I wanted to compose a sequence reminiscent of a movie. Moreover, the arrows drawn in the frame of this photo looked like a saucer shape (UFO).
Description :
On the day of Apollo 11's return from the moon to Earth, a mysterious light descends upon the planet. Disguised as a flower but, in reality, a space creature. It radiates a red glow in an uninhabited place.
Why : The red flowers in this photo felt like a cluster of alien life forms. The intense red hue made it feel unreal instead.
Why : The red flowers in this photo felt like a cluster of alien life forms. The intense red hue made it feel unreal instead.
Description :
As reports of flowers emitting red light continued to be received, the U.S. intelligence agency, in order to investigate, establishes a restricted zone around the area. The government names this event the "Red Light."
Civilians are not allowed to enter, and only a handful of people know what is happening there.
Why : The letters "Keep out" written on a sign in a place that seemed unlikely to be visited caught my attention. Associating this photo with extraterrestrial life is probably influenced by images from American movies that are engraved in my memory.
Civilians are not allowed to enter, and only a handful of people know what is happening there.
Why : The letters "Keep out" written on a sign in a place that seemed unlikely to be visited caught my attention. Associating this photo with extraterrestrial life is probably influenced by images from American movies that are engraved in my memory.
Description :
Top officials are gathered for a meeting to discuss the mysterious red light. How should they interpret it? Given that the red light spread on the day of Apollo 11's return, they are convinced that these are extraterrestrial life forms. Is their reaction more of excitement than fear? Their expressions are somewhat cheerful. In fact, they seem indifferent. They take a commemorative photo during the meeting.
Why : The content written on the frame intrigued me. Although I couldn't read what it said, the fact that someone personally wrote on the photo frame made it feel like an important figure in the event. The dark room, especially in contrast to the flower decoration on the chest, created a sense that there might be something hidden.
Why : The content written on the frame intrigued me. Although I couldn't read what it said, the fact that someone personally wrote on the photo frame made it feel like an important figure in the event. The dark room, especially in contrast to the flower decoration on the chest, created a sense that there might be something hidden.
Description :
An extraterrestrial spacecraft revealed itself on Earth, leaving everyone speechless at its colossal size. The red stripe marked on the hull gives the impression of being associated with the red light. Despite its enormity, the spacecraft moves swiftly. Humanity is awestruck by extraterrestrial technology surpassing current human capabilities. All that remains for humans is a single photograph.
Although the government kept it a secret, a child who once gazed at the night sky in admiration of the universe might have witnessed this scene.
Why : This photo delivered a visual impact. There is no other reason. Upon seeing this photo, I immediately wanted to associate it with the "7 photos" and "extraterrestrial life."
Although the government kept it a secret, a child who once gazed at the night sky in admiration of the universe might have witnessed this scene.
Why : This photo delivered a visual impact. There is no other reason. Upon seeing this photo, I immediately wanted to associate it with the "7 photos" and "extraterrestrial life."
Description : After the extraterrestrial spacecraft departed, the red light disappeared, and the number of cats increased dramatically. Some cats stare at people passing by, evoking strange emotions. Could it be that aliens disguised themselves as cats?
Someone who had seen the spacecraft encountered a cat while heading to a bar. The cat's demeanor seems unusual.
It's holding something in its mouth... looks like a piece of bread. Tried to chase after it, but the cat quickly hid. Leaving the cat behind, they entered the bar.
Why : I've come across posts and illustrations online suggesting that there are aliens living inside cats. It's something that's hard for humans to understand, but I find myself agreeing because of the peculiar behaviors of cats. Especially since I have a cat myself, I feel a stronger attachment to these unique behaviors.
Someone who had seen the spacecraft encountered a cat while heading to a bar. The cat's demeanor seems unusual.
It's holding something in its mouth... looks like a piece of bread. Tried to chase after it, but the cat quickly hid. Leaving the cat behind, they entered the bar.
Why : I've come across posts and illustrations online suggesting that there are aliens living inside cats. It's something that's hard for humans to understand, but I find myself agreeing because of the peculiar behaviors of cats. Especially since I have a cat myself, I feel a stronger attachment to these unique behaviors.
Description :
Entering the bar, he notices a table with a loaf of bread and a half-empty beer glass. The center of the bread is hollowed out. The empty table raises suspicions, and he questions the owner. The owner replies that a black guy was sitting there just a while ago and gets upset, asking where he went.
The customer rushes out to find the black guy.
Will he encounter the black cat?!!!
Why : In a way, it might seem like a simple dining table, but the combination of a bagel (usually associated with breakfast) and beer felt somewhat odd. Could it be because bagels are commonly associated with breakfast? That's what I thought. After looking at the photo with the red flowers, the chosen picture with a table adorned with red decorations felt strangely intriguing.
The customer rushes out to find the black guy.
Will he encounter the black cat?!!!
Why : In a way, it might seem like a simple dining table, but the combination of a bagel (usually associated with breakfast) and beer felt somewhat odd. Could it be because bagels are commonly associated with breakfast? That's what I thought. After looking at the photo with the red flowers, the chosen picture with a table adorned with red decorations felt strangely intriguing.
Keywords
Movie, Sequences, Aliens, Space Science, Hearings, and the Future of Humanity.
Before Selection
When choosing the images to select the 7 frames, I had concerns about what criteria to use.
After Selection
Personally, the 7 images I selected resonate with me to the point where I would like to have them. Moreover, examining the films and realizing how many people have left records, being able to glimpse into those times, made the process of selection fascinating. Also, if you were to ask me again, I would be willing to do it, as it was so enjoyable.
2. Kyunghwan Choo
Selection Criteria
Have you ever experienced that feeling? It's as if I'm not myself. I've been in this place all along, but every
thing, except for my soul, seems to be changing. Lately, I often feel the presence of an alien version of myself, not quite the person I recognize.
The pictures I selected embody my current internal confusion, the process of seeking reasons behind it, and contemplation on how to address it. It's a reflection of a very straightforward flow of consciousness. I've been contemplating about aging. The emergence of white hair, the loss of the freedom I once had, and the burden of a life not entirely of my making - all of these contribute to what feels like aging for me.
It seems like, at the very beginning, I tried to distance myself from everything that caused confusion in me. I reflect on what made me happiest, what I enjoyed the most, and what truly made me feel free. However, even in those thoughts, the ultimate focus returns to my present self. Eventually, having come full circle, I wonder, how should I proceed from here? The answer is simple. I need to do something, anything. I may be experiencing confusion, but I won't give up on life. So, in my own way, I am determined to find answers. I seek hints from my family, and I make resolutions to myself that are more than vague commitments. .
Regardless of the resolution of my concerns, as I looked from the outside, I somehow tried to create a cohesive narrative with the seven chosen pictures. It was very simple but contained a logical structure, and I added a bit of a narrative. I think I was selecting and stacking the format, painting the content one photo at a time, aiming to capture my story.
Selected Films
Description :
I recall a memory from 2016 when I went on a trip to London with my colleagues from work. We were standing in front of a tailor shop on a bustling Soho street, sharing various stories. In my younger days, I loved gathering with friends and mingling. We could talk all day even without profound topics, and if that wasn't enough, we would take turns making phone calls with receiver obligation, restarting the conversation once again when back at home.
Why : The gestures and facial expressions of those young people, just by looking at them, make me smile as if I'm right there with my friends from that time.
Why : The gestures and facial expressions of those young people, just by looking at them, make me smile as if I'm right there with my friends from that time.
Description :
Before getting married, I remember the last trip I took with my closest friends—four of them—to Laos. During the day, we went ziplining, tubing, and even diving in the Blue Lagoon. At night, we sang our hearts out, using the day's adventures as appetizers, and lamented the passing time. The wind blowing from unfamiliar places, the dust kicked up by the Bugycar, the pounding beats of the music, and the unfamiliar faces around us... In the midst of all that, I felt so free, getting lost in the mix to the point where I couldn't remember where I came from, what I was doing, or even who I was.
Why : That trip wasn't completely perfect, but it was perfect.
Why : That trip wasn't completely perfect, but it was perfect.
Description :
As you might have guessed, I love traveling. Traveling has always been a time for me to be entirely myself. It feels like my younger self lived in anticipation of going on trips. To travel, I would give my best at work, take care of my body and mind, and before I knew it, I'd find myself at the airport.
Why : For me, a swimming pool symbolizes the essence of travel. When I close my eyes and think about travel, a swimming pool is the first image that comes to mind. I've broken the early morning silence while reading a book, enjoyed the liberated freedom under the warm sunlight, and shared life stories with newfound acquaintances. Reflecting on my past days and envisioning the future while gazing at the sunset has always been both travel and life for me.
Why : For me, a swimming pool symbolizes the essence of travel. When I close my eyes and think about travel, a swimming pool is the first image that comes to mind. I've broken the early morning silence while reading a book, enjoyed the liberated freedom under the warm sunlight, and shared life stories with newfound acquaintances. Reflecting on my past days and envisioning the future while gazing at the sunset has always been both travel and life for me.
Description :
As I flip through the album, I come across images of my younger self, so young that I barely remember. It must have been somewhere in a horse ranch in Jeju Island. My mother was pregnant with my sibling, and my father, carrying me on a pony that seemed as big as our house, was laughing brightly with me. That child has now become a father himself next year.
Why : Honestly, it's quite scary. The fact that I, impulsive and still figuring myself out, am becoming a parent. The weight on the shoulders of my father and mother, something I could somewhat understand as I age, makes me wonder if I can handle it. Nevertheless, just like that child in the photo, just like me riding a horse on some day in 1990, I want to make my child smile and protect that laughter.
Why : Honestly, it's quite scary. The fact that I, impulsive and still figuring myself out, am becoming a parent. The weight on the shoulders of my father and mother, something I could somewhat understand as I age, makes me wonder if I can handle it. Nevertheless, just like that child in the photo, just like me riding a horse on some day in 1990, I want to make my child smile and protect that laughter.
Description :
I am constantly moving towards the vast and dense forest ahead. Whether it will be as peaceful as it seems from the outside or filled with dangerous wild creatures, I honestly don't know. Knowing that I must move forward no matter what, I face it head-on. Fortunately, thanks to the sacrifices and dedication of my parents, I am not walking a rough path but traveling on a paved road, and I am not walking but driving forward.
Why : From a distance, I thought I was alone in the car. However, as I looked closely, my wife and my soon-to-be-born baby were with me, and my family and supportive friends were also riding along. Saying that it's not scary to take an unfamiliar path would be a lie. However, I am not traveling that road alone.
Why : From a distance, I thought I was alone in the car. However, as I looked closely, my wife and my soon-to-be-born baby were with me, and my family and supportive friends were also riding along. Saying that it's not scary to take an unfamiliar path would be a lie. However, I am not traveling that road alone.
Description :
In front of our house, there is a park path covered with flowers and trees. I often walk along this park path, facing my thoughts. The lush green leaves, grown with the scent of seasons, bring joy, while the path covered with fallen leaves can be somewhat melancholic. On some days, I find myself lost in nostalgia while watching cherry blossoms fall, and on hot days, I admire a resilient rose that steadfastly holds its ground despite the scorching heat.
Why : Lately, I often find myself contemplating the idea of withering. Though I may wither, the park path in my heart will continue to bloom for a long time. As I continue walking along that path, I want to imbue a flower with longing for my parents, another with memories of my youthful days, and the last one with overflowing love to gift to my wife, who has stood by my side.
Why : Lately, I often find myself contemplating the idea of withering. Though I may wither, the park path in my heart will continue to bloom for a long time. As I continue walking along that path, I want to imbue a flower with longing for my parents, another with memories of my youthful days, and the last one with overflowing love to gift to my wife, who has stood by my side.
Description :
To celebrate our 60th birthdays, after 27 years, the four of us embarked on a trip to Banff together. Subum still has a protruding belly, Hyeonghoo has a full head of hair, and Hyunjin is doing well at work. As for me, I still can't handle alcohol.
We still feel like we're in our twenties, sitting in the same place, despite the many changes over the years. Some days, we achieved what we ardently wished for, while other days, we had to bid farewell to our loved ones. Even though we've spent quite a long time, is the discomfort of aging still my own issue?
Why : Sitting here, looking outside, I honestly envy the overflowing youth and energy on the streets. However, I don't really want to actively seek things to console or replace myself with. That would be too much of a desire, considering I've already experienced things in the past. Instead, I want to live by sharing stories about the present, not the past or the future, with my people. And that story should begin with the friends who are right here with me at this moment.
We still feel like we're in our twenties, sitting in the same place, despite the many changes over the years. Some days, we achieved what we ardently wished for, while other days, we had to bid farewell to our loved ones. Even though we've spent quite a long time, is the discomfort of aging still my own issue?
Why : Sitting here, looking outside, I honestly envy the overflowing youth and energy on the streets. However, I don't really want to actively seek things to console or replace myself with. That would be too much of a desire, considering I've already experienced things in the past. Instead, I want to live by sharing stories about the present, not the past or the future, with my people. And that story should begin with the friends who are right here with me at this moment.
Keywords
Travel, Freedom, Chaos, Aging, Children, and finally, Myself.
Before Selection
I wondered which photo would catch my eye and pondered about the criteria I should have. I believe a single line is formed by numerous points. I, too, am one of those points, but what kind of point am I, and how does it look? In the connected line, I imagined what my presence might be like.
After Selection
It was an occasion that led me to contemplate my individual self. Although the image selection was random, the process of repeated interviews felt like organizing my thoughts. Despite not preparing in advance, it became a moment to articulate my thoughts and ponder the direction ahead. What I shared seems to revolve around myself. It provided an opportunity to organize longstanding thoughts and contemplate the path forward.