Non-machines: Playground of Perspectives

Humans invented computing machines to use them as tools. However, these tools have developed to such an extent that, what not long ago was thought to be unimaginable, for example, computational generated texts or machines creating new machines, is now common-place.

The exhibition Non-machines: Playground of Perspectives reflects this situation which is fast becoming a new normal. By “non-machines” we mean human and non-human actors or tools that are not yet integrated into a machine network, such as a creature evolving freely in nature, or a human not connected to digital networks.

The exhibition invites us to rethink the relations between machines and non-machines, using a change of perspective: from one which sees the relationship between machines and non-machines as competing powers, to a more equitable and non-competing relationship among all entities.

The exhibition explores how emerging technologies, particularly digital technologies, suggest new relationships between artists and their technological tools. How can and should machines and non-machines relate to each other? How can the use of new methods and tools help us experience the environment?

The framework of this exhibition is developed by the professorship of Media Environments (Prof. Ursula Damm) at the Bauhaus University Weimar.