Spectral Constellations is a mesmerising series of generative animations driven by scientific data of young stars, collected by astronomers using a method called spectroscopy. The data creates an understanding of structures around distant young stars, where gas and dust come together to form planets. The light this matter emits is studied using prisms to split it into its constituent wavelengths, revealing its elemental make-up. By analysing it over time, spatial formations of the matter can be decoded.
By translating the spectroscopic data into rings of light which resemble the gradiated discs of planetary and stellar formations, Semiconductor (made up of artist duo Ruth Jarman and Joe Gerhardt) has created an environment of fragmented LED mosaics in which viewers are invited to explore a world of vibrant colours, form and motion that engages our tendency towards pattern recognition. The work reflects on our relationship with technology and its impact on our lives, inviting us to contemplate the ways in which we are increasingly connected with digital devices, networks, and software. As is characteristic of Semiconductor's oeuvre, it seeks to spark dialogue about our relationship with the environment and the impact of technology on our lives.
Spectral Constellations was commissioned through a residency with the Planet Disk Connection group and DJCAD at the University of Dundee, Scotland, using spectral data from the European Space Observatory archive.
Thu 26-1 to Sun 5-2, JOEY RAMONE
Free admission, no reservation required
Night Creatures
Isobel Knowles and Van Sowerwine are internationally celebrated Australian animators whose work has sought to break down the barrier between screen and reality; their virtual reality piece Passenger graced IFFR in 2020. Night Creatures, originally commissioned by the Melbourne International Film Festival, conjures delightful bat creatures who are able to pop into (via mobile phone) the flow of a real festival environment. These bats offer representative tales (derived from real-life interviews) of cinema viewing in a global cinema context: the discovery of other cultures and lifestyles; the affirmation of diverse identities; the affectionate battle of tastes; and the shared, collective experience of big-screen spectatorship.
– Adrian Martin
Thu 26-1 to Sun 5-2, JOEY RAMONE, LantarenVenster and Pathé Schouwburgplein
Free admission, no reservation required
