Image Gravity: Defining Spatial Constructs for Invisible Phenomena

Abstract

This paper questions contemporary modes and means of scientific presentation and introduces the notion of Image Gravity as a framework for spatial calibration of data into a site specific context. I make the argument that contemporary scientific vernacular has been flattened into a two dimensional space that needs further perceptual interrogation. Empirical observation of scientific phenomena is numerically inscribed to be presented in ways that are trusted, often without the scientist observing the phenomena directly. In this context, at a time when scientific engagement with environmental issues carries significant emotional and visual weight, this paper explores Image Gravity as a perspectival instrument for spatial calibration of scientific data that will challenge our existing communications channels. A proposed speculative framework for Image Gravity is outlined in this paper through the articulation of two vision-based processes; calibration and foregrounding. Through case study examples, we try to construct a baseline for expressing Image Gravity, as a way to show invisible phenomena in the built environment.