This new Internet based project invites a possible ten thousand participants to select pixels on a Web screen, choose a colour and then "switch" on this block of virtual space. Visitors are also able to include their name, location and a link to either their own web site or one they find interesting.
The image created will grow over the next few months and will be visible for at least three years. Eventually all one million pixels will be illuminated and at that point the project will be completed.
Not only will the finished screen result in an abstract image made by thousands of people, but act as a 'catalogue' of links to web sites around the world.
The project uses software and structures normally associated with Internet advertising. In 2005 Alex Tew, a student in the UK, set up a web site so that he could sell each of the pixels on his page to advertisers for $1.00 per pixel. In return the advertiser was able to place an advertising image in the pixels they purchased. Alex Tew made over a million dollars in 5 months and started a 'gold rush' on the internet. There are now thousands of sites selling advertising space and trying to duplicate Tew's success. Because of this a new industry has developed to provide pixel. advertising software. One Million Points of Light takes advantage of the new programmes which have become available to explore a visual, none advertising, model. Is it possible to 'sell' a rectangle of light which will build up into a collaborative visual statement?
If you would like to take part in the project please visit www.OneMillionPointsOfLight.com, select your 100 pixels, switch them on and influence the finished image.
The project aims to be self funding. The income generated from the site will be used, initially, to administer the project, maintain the servers on which it runs and then, if there is any surplus, contribute to the establishment of a new grant giving organisation for artists working with art and holography.
Visit Alex Tew's original site.
