Like Me 777

2011, Interactive Installation
Software program written by the artist, computer, HDTV/Projector, webcam, speakers

LikeMe777 is a satire on the narcissistic practice of using social networks for the purpose of self-promotion. This interactive software program will track and “like” every movement the viewer makes within the view of the camera. Once a random “magic number” of “likes” has been accumulated, a kitschy visual celebration will explode onto the screen commemorating this “achievement” and shower the viewer with blatant, artificial praises. In the end, this visual love-fest is followed by shameless self-promotion of the artist’s own Facebook page URL (http://www.facebook.com/cyeh777), urging the viewers to return the favor and become his fan on Facebook.

This artwork has been exhibited worldwide, it is a part of C.J. Yeh’s Pre-Purpose, Re-Purpose, and De-Purpose solo exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Taipei.

No one in the world would deny the relevance of social media to and for this current generation. The fast-paced, instant gratification nature of social media creates an environment where every individual feels highly compelled to broadcast their thoughts and experiences to others. The immediate positive reinforcement that we get in the form of likes, “+1s”, retweets, comments, and etc. makes the social networking experience addictive.