Auratic presence through slow media

In this paper we explore the opportunities of slowness through moving images. We take our proposition from Benjamin that 'the unique apparition of a distance, however near it may be'; that of a work of art is its 'here and now . . . its unique existence in a particular place.' We argue that it is possible to reclaim the aura in contemporary digital art practices through the adoption of slow media mindsets. We deconstruct the notion of 'authenticity' and argue that digital reproduction does not diminish authenticity, uniqueness and the aura of images. Using case studies of video artists and as well as video works drawn from our own creative practice, we examine how slow media strategies may be used to alter modes of viewer interaction and promote a dialogic audience engagement. We reject the quick glance in favour of the lingering gaze, and champion the 'slow reveal'. Through slowness we invite temporal disruptions and a poetic engagement whereby the viewer is situated in the moment.