A Ken Myer avatar

It's a little strange. It's a little creepy. And it's definitely high-tech. It's the virtual Ken Myer.

The president of the Washington Technology Industry Association has been transformed into a life-like avatar who talks, moves and even blinks. 

The avatar, created by Humanity Interactive, appears on the WTIA Web site and instructs viewers to sign up for an upcoming panel discussion on the state's gaming industry.  

It marks a first for the WTIA and Myer, who seemed a little self-conscious about the project in a chat this week. "No one likes to see themselves photographed, so looking at yourself as an avatar amplifies that," he said.

And what about those who know Myer best? What's the reaction to seeing a virtual version of the real person? "I sent it to my mom and her reaction was: 'Wow. This is creepy," said Myer.

It's unlikely that the virtual promotions will become commonplace on the WTIA site. But Myer thinks it is pretty cool, adding that as the state's technology organization they need to showcase new innovations.