Abstract

Touching the Face of the Other explores AI avatarization and fake/face aesthetics. It delves into the origins of avatars, the presence of otherness, and the intricate complexities of deepfake aesthetics. The concept of encountering the otherness of the face-to-face interaction, as discussed by Levinas, is closely connected to the notion of surpassing the uncanny valley through hyperrealistic AI Avatar faciality, resulting in an uncanny canniness. This research investigates the multifaceted nature of facing the Other, highlighting the significance of the touch-face dynamic, as exemplified in Asta Grötings’ video installation Touch, and underscores the aesthetic implications for AI Avatar faciality.