prototype.red Headset
Construction of Found Objects, 2022
prototype.red is an amalgamation of pieces from robot model remnants and computer scraps. It is a result of meticulous attention to detail and mechanic confusion, a reflection of Yūn Mago's own efforts to search for order amidst turmoil. Deep red hues contrast sleek, silver metal in a piece that emphasizes the struggle between adhering to established conventions or prioritizing one's volition.
//: Field Notes
The following log is a transcription of a conversation between ŪNIT-dymonmilk and PROTOTYPE.RED.
[Record 220712]
How long did this piece take?
Around 30 hours, more or less. This was my first piece, and it was made with this metal robot kit that took me around 8 hours to assemble at first. I still remember the first night, how I started at 10pm and only went to bed at 4am. I think it took that long since I hadn’t developed a process for myself yet. The pieces were also really damn tiny.
I spread the work out over the course of a week and a half, with a majority of the time being experimentation.
How do the materials/medium used in this piece reflect the pilot?
All of the ŪNITs rely on music to be able to ground themselves. Before I started this project, I was going through a turbulent period in my life and constantly needed to be able to shut the outside world out to feel at peace… I did this a lot with music. I’m not musically gifted but music helps me add another dimension to how I visualize things.
So, I made a headset that showcases how freeing music can be.
Red wings signify passion and being able to “fly away”. The metal reflects the seemingly cold exterior of Prototype.RED.
What word or emotion do you want to invoke through this piece, and how does the piece do that?
“Soar”.
The wing symbolism really carries this piece, doesn’t it? I hope it encourages viewers to be able to use music to inspire them. To allow them to take flight in their passions.
What was your mental state like when working on this piece? Do you think it hindered or aided the process/result?
Prior to creating this piece, I was going through a depressive episode and personal events that affected a lot of my work and instilled anxiety in me. I felt like I couldn’t do the things I enjoyed without feeling anxious… So, I decided to get back into crafting.
Not having to look at my phone for hours on end, not having to worry about outside influences… It was relieving. The sense of peace that being able to “zone out” brought definitely aided in my ability to complete this piece with confidence. I was also really excited to try creating something that was unusual to what I typically make.