Franz Alken and Karl Rueskaefer have come up with an ingenius commercial idea even though, as a connoisseur of art, I'm supposed to be opposed to evil corporations. The idea is simple. Why can't software replace you as a consumer?
What happens when a computer programme starts buying and selling stuff on Internet auctions like ebay autonomously? That is the key question of superconsumers. The stuff the Bot has bought is exhibited for a short time. Thus digital values are translated into tangible goods. And vice versa, since the Bot sells them again after a while to buy new ones. In this way, commonplace products are temporarily translated into works of art.
I am a busy person. I have certain needs and wants, but there simply is not time in the day for me to buy everything I need. In general, I only have time to buy the essentials.
This is where software as a buyer can potentially be useful. Imagine, if you will, a program that looks for the best deals, analyzes reviews from reputable sources, keeps in mind my personal tastes — and buys accordingly? Not only that, what if this software were to be programmed to buy and sell for profit?
Certainly, my application is less random than the one in the Interface and Society exhibit — and quite different from the "message" the artists are trying to make. Still, technology is supposed to make life easier, and shopping for clothes, cutlery, and microwaves is a pain in the neck. All I want is the best deal with a decent warranty.
If software can take the place of being the consumer, rather than me, I'm happy.
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