The submissive speaks: The semiotics of visuality in virtual BDSM fantasy play

Shaowen Bardzell

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

The paper explores the mutually-constituted relations between avatars, space, and artifacts depicted in players' profile portraits in a Second Life BDSM community. The significance of these images is not simply their representation of the lifestyle; they also convey the entertainment and interactive significance of virtual BDSM fantasy play. Through 3D game technology and photographic conventions, participants of Second Life BDSM community collectively construct a grammar and symbolism of power and submission through institutional structures (BDSM communities and lifestyle practices), enforced roles (dominance and submission, master/mistress and slave), and virtual photographic technologies (in-game instant snapshots). In the process, the spectator consciously and unconsciously participates in the power dynamics that these portraits depict.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings - Sandbox Symposium 2006
Subtitle of host publicationACM SIGGRAPH Video Game Symposium, Sandbox '06
Pages99-102
Number of pages4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2006
EventSandbox Symposium 2006: ACM SIGGRAPH Video Game Symposium, Sandbox '06 - Boston, MA, United States
Duration: Jul 30 2006Jul 31 2006

Publication series

NameProceedings - Sandbox Symposium 2006: ACM SIGGRAPH Video Game Symposium, Sandbox '06

Conference

ConferenceSandbox Symposium 2006: ACM SIGGRAPH Video Game Symposium, Sandbox '06
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBoston, MA
Period7/30/067/31/06

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Computer Graphics and Computer-Aided Design
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Software

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