Rotting Apple

A Chain of Image Files

v2.0

Progress art since 1991

This project creates a logical linkage between files to make digital images immutable. By doing so, it establishes "originals" that, by their nature, do not typically exist in the digital world. This is achieved by embedding the checksum of one file into the metadata of the subsequent file. Metadata, such as information about an image's creation, typically includes details like the time and location of capture, aperture, shutter speed, copyright, etc. These metadata fields are extended with custom data, including the checksum of the previous image. This creates an unalterable chain of files—changing an image would alter its checksum, breaking the chain.
Additionally, each image generates a unique key pair: a public key and a private key. The public key, along with the image's serial number, is embedded into the metadata, ensuring the image can have a verifiable owner. The owner can authenticate their ownership using the private key.
This project addresses fundamental themes: time, space, and information. It explores processes, generative art, the concept of originality, and duplication in the digital age. The reality of IT systems negatively impacts our daily lives—everything becomes a copy, stripped of individuality or distinction. We are also facing an impending information crisis, where the individual becomes a mere pawn in a system that predicts and dictates behavior. The collective intellect of society diminishes as we increasingly rely on algorithms to navigate our world.

The apple is an original apple from an object from 1991. It is now back in front of a camera - the picture is every 10 minutes digitally signed - all written in metadata - and ready for download.

Art and digital technologies: Faced with the feeling of futility, many artists are tempted to press the ‘delete everything’ button. Especially when it comes to the subject of the original and the copy. However, deleting everything is not a solution - we live in the information system we have created. This digital world is our own invention, and the challenge is to find a coexistence with new forms of information. Together, we must imagine a future that reconciles people and technology and promotes harmony rather than division.

Overview

The "Rotting Apple" project involves creating a secure, verifiable chain of digital image files, akin to a blockchain but tailored specifically for images. This chain ensures the integrity and ownership of digital images through a combination of cryptographic hashes and public/private key encryption. Here's a detailed breakdown of how the project works and its relation to a Merkle tree structure.

How the Project Works

  1. A Hash Chain off Unique Files:

  2. Merkle Tree Concept:

  3. Public/Private Keys:

Benefits of the Project

Technical and Logical Coherence

This project represents a unique application of blockchain-like technology and cryptographic principles to the realm of digital media, demonstrating how traditional data security concepts can be innovatively applied to new fields.