This master thesis project investigates the possibilities of fictional storytelling and modern technology to bridge the empathy gap between those living in peace and those who are affected by war on a daily basis. By recreating the war-torn landscapes of Ukraine as scenes that fictionally happened in Switzerland, I aim to highlight the horrors of war from a different perspective and renew empathy in the modern society that is not affected by war. Through this challenging narrative, I try to address such issues like people getting tired of war news, becoming used to war images from a different country, and feeling the mental effects of a conflict, as it happened here.
In my practice-led research, I create compelling visual narratives using AI tools, alongside real war photography and interviews with the close circle of Ukrainian people affected by war. Techniques like image editing, AR interactions, and AI enhancements transform Swiss settings into war zones, illustrating the devastating impact of conflict. When readers scan photos in the book, AR reveals the true origin of the images, uncovering the real imagery behind them.
All in all, my thesis explores how storytelling, combined with generative AI, can create a deeper understanding and empathy for war victims. By challenging the way people see the world around them and encouraging them to get involved, "Switzerland on Fire" aims to create a much stronger connection and understanding between two groups of people, as well as it seeks to grow attention on helping Ukraine and keep European society more informed.
