The second death of Caspar Helendale

What happens to all the unwanted avatars? When we no longer want these Second Lives, do they just revert to inert data held on a server? Building on the notion of virtual graveyards and online remembrance, Jessica Curry and Dan Pinchbeck invite residents and guests on a quest to draw attention to abandoned identities, joining Caspar Helendale on his last days of existence in Second Life. They are building a monument to these lost avatars, where you will be able to join them for a virtual vigil. This will include a specially composed requiem for the departed; and a Book of the Dead, containing the names of the lost and their reasons for leaving their second lives. At the end of the performance, Caspar will join the ranks of abandoned avatars and relinquish his second life. Performed at Exeter Phoenix, Exeter, UK, 2 December 2008. Performed at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, UK, 27-28 November 2009