Artificial intelligence is omnipresent: from image editing programmes in smartphones to self-parking cars and virtual assistants in the kitchen. The attempt to transfer human learning and thinking to computers and give them intelligence is a prominent phenomenon of our time. But what exactly is AI? This question will be explored in an exhibition project developed by Sandra Rodriguez at the KINDL Centre for Contemporary Art from 4 November 2022.
Image above: Digital rendering, VR-Anwedung NFB SCHENELLE BUNTE BILDER
CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY: A playful conversation on AI, developed by Sandra Rodriguez, is not so much an exhibition project: more an engaging virtual reality experience shared by visitors that invites them to explore the promises, possibilities, but also obstacles, pitfalls and dangers of AI and to critically question the automation of intelligent human behaviour.
In November 2022, the German-Canadian co-production CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY will celebrate its premiere in Berlin. When artificial intelligence is praised as an inevitable and necessary technology of the present and future, one should ask: What do we hope for from it? And what price are we willing to pay for it?
Through various game forms, CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY shows the limits and possibilities of machine learning and at the same time highlights the human capacity for creativity, research and collaboration. The question of the singularity of human creativity is central here. It is one of the most interesting and controversial discussion points in the context of AI. Experience in the study of human thought shows how little we know about the human mind – so a very urgent, essential question arises: what exactly are we trying to emulate in AI?
Visitors enter the world of AI with VR headsets. They are immediately greeted by CHOM5KY – an artificial entity inspired by and generated from the numerous digital traces of Noam Chomsky. Noam Chomsky, born in Philadelphia in 1928, professor emeritus of linguistics at MIT, is one of the world’s best-known critical intellectuals.
CHOM5KY is a friend and guide in the CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY virtual experience space, inviting you to look beyond the surface of machine learning and understand how artificial intelligence intersects with human life.
The visitors enter into a dialogue with the AI CHOM5KY, can ask questions and learn about the importance of data as the basis for AI and how algorithms work. In addition, they interact with other visitors and ask themselves the not-so-easy-to-answer question of whether their counterpart is an AI or a “real” person.
Why Noam Chomsky? Chomsky is a philosopher, social critic, historian and political activist, best known for his work in linguistics and cognitive science-the study of the mind and human thought. One of the most important living intellectuals, he has left behind a flood of data sufficient to develop an AI system based on his legacy. Chomsky himself is sceptical about the promises of AI. That is why he is the perfect companion to encourage visitors to question everything they see and thus contribute to the demystification of AI.
CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY was developed by Sandra Rodriguez (Canada/Québec), Ph.D., director, producer and sociologist of new media technology. Rodriguez is a researcher and lecturer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she leads “Hacking XR”, MIT’s first official class on ever-sustainable media design.
About the NFB
The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is one of the world’s leading centres for digital content, creating groundbreaking interactive documentaries, animated films, mobile content, installations and experiences. The NFB’s interactive productions and digital platforms have won over 100 awards, including 21 Webby Awards.
About SCHNELLE BUNTE BILDER
SCHNELLE BUNTE BILDER is an interdisciplinary studio founded in 2012 that specialises in animation and media scenography. Technically and creatively at the cutting edge, our heart beats for art, culture and science. We develop customised productions for exhibitions and events. Together with curators, we develop innovative exhibits and digital communication strategies for museums and events.
Accompanying event with Science Notes on Artificial Intelligence: 9 November, 8 p.m., admission free. with Sandra Rodriguez (Canada/Québec), scientist and lecturer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), art director of CHOM5KY vs CHOMSKY, among others.
WHEN?
Exhibition dates: Friday, 4 November until Sunday, 20 November 2022
COSTS?
12 €
WHERE?
KINDL – Zentrum für zeitgenössische Kunst
Am Sudhaus 3
12053 Berlin-Neukölln
