Tales of Arid'Nu
Machines are associated with efficiency, and nowadays, their intelligence is mostly measured in the number of artificial neurons that make up their brains. Technological systems are often alien to their surrounding, not able to interact in ways that are not predefined or planed and therefore remain static to a certain extent. In contrast to this, we propose a different approach for the design of machines through what we call radical embodiment. This means to apply smart and active materials as well as evolutionary processes. We discovered, that such methods can lead to unforeseen and surprising results. In Tales of Arid'Nu, we explore alternative potentials of machines. Starting with theoretical research on biological processes and cybernetics leading to a practical manifestation with an emphasis on material experimentation and evolution as a narrative strategy. We realized these ideas through the construction of physical machines focused around their bodies, acting autonomously in environmental space. Embedding these artificial systems within an environment, as an acting agent with the potential to interact was possible through narration and imaginary evolutionary processes. We worked with scientifically grounded materials within a fictional space. Through this process, we hope to reimagine the potential of machines as independently performing agents and to stimulate a new methodology for the design of artificial systems, regarding their use and their interactions with an environment.
Aurelian Ammon & Carlo Natter
Bachelor-Thesis 2019
Mentors: Karmen Franinović & Luke Franzke
Others: Thanks to Daniel Quadt of AlFiPa (alfipa.de) for the material support.
