How Much Space? — Emma J Davis

How Much Space Can the Body Hold Without Seeing It?
Spatial perception, bodily memory
Practice-led research experiment
Vármező / Câmpu Cetății, Transylvania, Romania.
2026

I set my camera on a 1-minute interval timer and mounted it on my back as I walked to the forest. While my attention faced forward, I became increasingly aware of the space behind me: what I had passed through, what I could no longer see, and what the camera might be seeing without me.

I occasionally looked back, noticing views I had not registered while moving forward. Later, I compared some of the photographs with my memory of the walk, asking what had occupied my body without entering my field of vision.

I saw the logging truck coming. But I didn’t see it leaving.

I remember this path. I don’t remember this view.

I remember entering the woods. I didn’t notice the darkness.

I don’t remember seeing darkness. I did not consciously see it.

I knew what was behind me. I don’t recognise this view.

Spatial Design, Interiors, Art & Research
Email: Emma@emmajdavis.com
@emmajdavis_

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