Entity
2021
The algorithmic performance ENTITY is a poetic-immersive exploration of the peculiarities of algorithmic systems and their interdependence with humans.
The encounter stages an algorithmic system that attempts to fathom its own position, agency, and entanglement in the world. Visitors experience this process of algorithmic introspection in the midst of mirrors that host and embody the artificial entity. However, the mirrors not only show the reflections of the visitors, but also alienated images and ghostly representations of previous encounters. Like digital observations and fragmented memories, these images merge with the mirror images of the visitors.
Based on a language model specially trained for performance, the data-driven system continuously formulates statements about the nature of algorithms, cybernetic and posthuman entanglements. During this performance, the synthetic voice oscillates between sound and speech, never a fully human expression, nor a purely mechanical gibberish. The algorithmic performance is unique at all times. Image, sound and speech are generated in real time. As a speculative framework, the performance allows us to explore the relationship of humans and algorithmic systems, their humanization as well as their inhumanity.
Credits:
Created by Marcel Bückner
Assistance: Lea Rebecca Minow
Programming: Marcel Bückner, Tim Heinze, Neo Christopher Chung
Sound: Tim Heinze
Technical Setup: Marcel Bückner
LED Construction: Mateo Ziehten
Fotos: Marcel Bückner
Video Documentation: Greta Isabella Conte
Montage: Marcel Bückner