Since 1979, the Ars Electronica Festival has been a vibrant hub for art, technology, and innovation in the bustling city of Linz. This annual event explores a wide range of cutting-edge topics, from AI and robotics to biotechnology. This year's theme, ‘Who Owns the Truth?’, delves into the complex concept of truth ownership, challenging attendees with immersive exhibits, talks and workshops to ponder this question.
There is no easy answer for sure. However the experience of participating in this labyrinth of installations and performances helped our team to reflect and find a common ground among their favorite works.
One of our favorites was Project Humanity, created by NTT, WITH ALS, and Dentsu Lab Tokyo. This R&D installation is an exploration of unknown dimensions within the human experience. Observing an avatar being controlled remotely through electromyography signals by individuals affected by ALS was a profoundly captivating event. It unveiled a realm of possibilities, evoking a profound sense of joy and liberation.
This seamless integration of technology and human spirit also appears in Swirling Senses, crafted by Thomas Tucker and Thom Judson. This work immerses users into a mesmerizing VR journey where a plastic set transforms into a multisensory underwater adventure, guided by the artists and user's sensibility
Xs Sculpture, a third installation by AxLab, is a shape-changing user interface with mechanical arms that moves randomly until it becomes docile upon human presence. This interaction symbolizes the human need to establish a relationship of trust with the machine, which becomes almost emotional when an harmonious dialogue is created between them.
These experiences highlight the intricate interplay between humanity and technology, prompting us to look for a deeper understanding as we get closer to the machines shaping our future. The festival reminds us that the answers may be elusive, but the journey itself becomes a helpful exploration of the constantly changing technological landscape.
