Second Lives' photos suggest an answer to a question; if given a chance to recreate reality, ourselves, and life, what would we import from our first lives and what would we reimagine? Through the collective imagination of Second Life's residents we are given a look in to what a virtual world can be - how it can repackage the human experience in a whole new context free of some of the universe's most limiting constraints.
Second Life allows its residents to project themselves in to a communal reality where, instead of being born in, are created. A world where instead of being shaped by your environment, you have total creative mastery over it. Linden Labs and its residents have created a world where your life's projection is only limited by your wits and imagination. A place with not many rules or mechanisms to abide by.
With near limitless opportunity to shape and create experiences, what becomes of the human experience? What challenges have been left in place to make the journey meaningful? And what destinations are worth going to? Are those destinations a tribute to their non-virtual counterpart, or are they a new frontier on the human psyche?
Second Lives' photographs have been taken over a twelve year period. They showcase the wide range of identities, places, and activities Second Life's residents create. As well as the familiar human love, lust, and aspiration needed to make any life worth living, virtual or not.
Lucas Leo Catalano AKA Leo Bhalti is a documentary photographer based in Australia. His documentary work covers notable topics such as the Roma migrations in Europe, conflict in the Holy Lands, and tourism identities in Indonesia. Formally trained at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Italy, and former resident tutor of Darkroom Technologies at the GrafittiPress School, Italy.
More information at:
https://www.lucasleophoto.com/
Physical copy available at:
https://au.blurb.com/b/10778570-second-lives
- Wearable or rez-able book
Has everything
Wonderful photos ♡