Facial detection and recognition systems are becoming increasingly prevalent in our public and private lives. The implications of mass-biometric-surveillance as a tool to undermine privacy are clear. Yet, many lack a fundamental understanding of how these complex and often proprietary (or "black box") systems work. This workshop seeks to support participants to learn the primary strategies for undermining these systems through a DIY hands-on approach. Participants will craft expressive wearable looks that undermine common facial detection algorithm strategies, using household objects, natural elements, or other readily available materials. The workshop's goals are to support a more thorough (and accessible) understanding of how facial detection systems work and to promote conversation about privacy and biometric surveillance.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have created custom looks that undermine common facial detection systems. However, the primary goal of the workshop is to support participants in learning about the increasing prevalence of facial recognition systems, how these systems work (at a high-level), and how easily these systems perpetuate bias and cause harm.
How will you deal with varying numbers of participants in your session?:My workshop is very flexible. I'll give a short overview of facial detection systems and why this area is important for critical consideration. Then participants work independently on their own FR-undermining masks. We come back after a period of time to talk about the looks we made. If the group is large we can break into breakout rooms. If the group is small we can just share one room to discuss our looks and thoughts about facial recognition technologies.
We're hoping that many efforts and discussions will continue after Mozfest. Share any ideas you already have for how to continue the work from your session.:With previous workshops I've hosted on facial recognition undermining strategies, participants have shared their looks with their digital communities. I want to end the workshop with a couple of questions for participants to continue to consider moving forward (e.g., how does facial recognition impact my community? Can facial recognition and consent co-exist?") and ask participants to consider answering those questions when they post images of their completed looks (perhaps with the Mozfest hashtag to catalog commentary in one place.)
Joselyn McDonald (she/her) is a creative technologist, designer, and researcher. Through her practice, she seeks to open up new inclusive pathways for experimenting with and critically thinking about technology.