A picture is worth a thousand words, but even a few words can change what picture we see. The challenge comes in placing and finding those words. Supported by an overview of her artistic journey, Alexandra “Sasha” V. Tarassova reflects on her contributions as one of the art directors for Survey Drone 15 — an exploration game where the player does not have a direct view of their environment. Originally a proof-of-concept project, the game was transformed by the inclusion of a physical manual as a core element of play. Tarassova delves into how a simple set of stapled sheets turned into a narrative device that explores the unique properties of the 4th wall in videogames, the retro and analog as forms of protest, the overlooked artistry of paratext, or supporting material for a main body of work, and the darker patterns of influence in today’s hypercommercialized society. Spurred by her newfound fascination with paratext, Tarassova hopes to spark further discussion of its capabilities for congruent (or, para-)narratives in digital media.

About the Artist

Alexandra V. Tarassova attended York University for her undergraduate degree in Digital Media Game Arts. Formally trained in visual arts before pivoting towards video games, she has participated in several projects in her hometown of Markham, including the "Awakening" art exhibition at FLATO Markham Theatre and the Hart House Instamural. Never far from a pencil and paper, she believes that the act of creation is an inherent part of being human and enjoys dabbling in any medium she can get her hands on. From 3D printing computer accessories to needle felting horses, she lives by a "try everything at least once" mentality. Alexandra is a finalist for the 2024 InterAccess Media Arts Prize.

About the Media Arts Prize

Since 1990, the InterAccess Media Arts Prize has been granted annually to a graduating student whose work exhibits excellence and innovation in new media practice. Faculty from university programs within the GTA are invited to nominate a student to be considered for a solo exhibition in InterAccess's gallery. Nominations are adjudicated by InterAccess's Programming Committee, who select a prize winner to be awarded a solo exhibition opportunity, a complimentary one-year studio membership, and professional development and mentorship. All finalists receive a complimentary one-year studio membership to InterAccess and an opportunity for a public artist talk.