As a connoisseur of art and technology, I must say that Refik Anadol’s latest creation, Inner Portrait, has left me utterly captivated. This data sculpture is not just a visual feast for the eyes, but a profound exploration into the human experience of travel and its impact on our psyche. The immersive installation transported me back to my first journeys, stirring up a maelstrom of emotions, from exhilaration to nostalgia.
Refik Anadol, the artist, has a versatile approach that merges media arts, architecture, data, and artificial intelligence to construct immersive environments. His recent project, Inner Portrait, is a striking example of a “data sculpture,” which essentially translates to a space filled with captivating colors, textures, and graphics.
In collaboration with Turkish Airlines, the unique art exhibit known as Inner Portrait transforms biological and neurological data from four novice travelers into AI-generated images. This artistic process captures each individual’s emotional responses to the exhilarating experience of traveling and exploring unfamiliar surroundings – delving into the deep effects of travel, while stirring a feeling of excitement or even nostalgia in spectators as they reminisce about their initial voyages. The data gathered also incorporated the vibrant impressions of iconic landmarks and cities such as Petra (an ancient city in Jordan), Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, and Tokyo. As viewers immerse themselves within this stunning display, they are enveloped by a cascade of brilliant colors and movements on all four walls. Reflections of themselves are projected from mirrored floors and ceilings, offering Rorschach-like insights into their subconscious.
On November 27, a 30-minute documentary offering additional insights into the creation of “Inner Portrait” was unveiled at the Atatürk Cultural Center in Istanbul. In this documentary, artist Anadol discussed his application of machine learning methods such as supervised learning (a technique using labeled data to train algorithms to spot patterns and forecast results) during the project’s development. Additionally, he highlighted the impact of groundbreaking neurological research like the Human Connectome Project, which focuses on mapping the neural pathways responsible for human brain function, on his artistic approach. One particularly noteworthy revelation came from Tuikuru, a Yawanawa tribe member from the Amazon. As a Shaman, he showed exceptionally stable brain signals, according to Anadol.
In a time when data privacy is shrouded in debate and apprehension, Anadol emphasized the importance of gathering data diligently and ethically, ensuring full transparency and voluntary participation from the subjects. The chosen quartet was distinguished by their individual experiences, varying viewpoints, and receptiveness to the artistic endeavor and experience. Anadol’s immersive exhibit invites us to reassess our interaction with reality as he continues his thought-provoking aesthetic expedition on the cutting edge of technology.
Beginning in 2025, the documentary titled “Inner Portrait” embarks on a worldwide journey. In the near future, you can also stream this intriguing film on various online platforms for your convenience. Click here for further details.
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2024-12-03 20:26