The Attention Project

Author

Susan Bryand, University of MaineFollow

Date of Award

Fall 12-20-2024

Level of Access Assigned by Author

Open-Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Intermedia

Advisor

Susan Lynn Smith

Second Committee Member

Sheridan Kelley Adams

Third Committee Member

Kat Johnson

Abstract

This written thesis is an exploration of my use of the creative process as a tool for the improvement of my quality of life. Beginning by connecting my practice to others in the contemporary art world, analyzing my body of work, and examining how it connects to aspects of well-being. The paper concludes with an examination of the Attention Project in which I use my creative process to reject the attention economy, smartphone and tablet technology, and social media applications in an attempt to regain control of my own attention and direct it toward objects of attention which would have a more positive impact on the overall quality of life. This exploration includes an in-depth discussion of the objects and actions that were created, with reflections on the long-term impact on quality of life. The thesis concludes with implications for the future of the artist in society.

Recommended Citation

Bryand, Susan, "The Attention Project" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 4120.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/etd/4120