Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners are high-tech medical instruments that use nuclear physics to aid in medical diagnosis and neuroscientific research. MRI scanners manipulate the tissues of subjects’ brains at the subatomic level to reveal anatomical structures or, as in the case of FMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging), they map activity taking place in selected regions of the brain.

The Haunted Scanner, however, is made of chipboard, wood scraps, and consumer electronics. It’s weather-beaten and forlorn, and yet, it still seems to function, in a way. It can’t quite scan your brain, but maybe it can offer glimpses into some kind of murky inner world. Who built this weird machine, and why? It’s like a vestige of a strange society who’s meaning has been lost. Perhaps it had a scientific function, a medical function, a spiritual function, or perhaps it was constructed just for fun. Other odd objects exist in the same strange parallel universe. Are they fetishistic relics of past technologies, venerated by the last remnants of a dying culture? Are they powerful talismans, whimsical toys, or simply nostalgic souvenirs of times gone by?

Technical support and creative consultation by Rob Cruickshank.

Many thanks to Abdullah Al-Gailani, Sarah Duncan, Mikayla Salomons, Dr. Michael Noseworthy and Jordi Alfaro for research support in the early stages of this project.

Financial support generously provided by Turkstra Lumber, the Arts Research Board at McMaster, and the Ontario Arts Council.

EVENTS

Opening Reception: Thursday, January 26th, 5:30 – 8:30 PM

Artist Talk: Wednesday, March 15th, 12:30 – 1:20 PM