Analyze This / Analyze That
with Pravin Sathe
A Self-Administered Rorschach Test
The Rorschach test - a method of psychological evaluation - administered since its invention in 1921 by Hermann Rorschach has been controversial. One specific criticism of the test has been the psychologist's role in the administration of the exam. The belief that the psychologist projects onto to the patterns - due to "Form Coherence" - has led some to question the test's reliability.
Analyze This / Analyze That is an installation that allows any visitor to self-administer the exam while allowing other visitors to interpret the results. The sculpture consists of 10 ink blot patterns from the Rorschach test. Etched onto alternating transparent and black plexiglass sheets, each inkblot is contained in a wooden container whose cover has been etched with the face of Mr. Rorschach. A cold cathode tube lights a blot as it is placed in the viewer. The "patient" writes what he/she thinks is the meaning of the blot on a transparent piece of transparency. Once the "patient" has taken the entire test, the transparencies are posted to the web where any visitor can interpret their meaning. It is through the "wisdom of crowds" that we hope to get a clearer picture of a patient's personality.
Analyze This / Analyze That was installed at the Interactive Telecommunications Program (ITP) in April of 2007.
Analyze This / Analyze That is a collaboration between Pravin Sathe and Andy Doro.
