We embarked on the creation of this artistic documentary to challenge the entrenched dualities of digital worlds and confront the societal implications of technology's current trajectory. Exploring the dynamic practice of the artistic duo Operator (Ania Catherine and Dejha Ti), this episode of TBA21 on st_age aims to illuminate the intersections of art, technology, and societal discourse. By showcasing their diverse body of work, ranging from experiential installations to thought-provoking performances, it seeks to elicit a critical reflection on the role of technology in shaping our collective future. 

At the core of this exploration and the documentary co-produced for st_age is Operator's project, Soft Evidence, a slow synthetic cinema series that challenges traditional ideas of truth and reality, presenting viewers with immersive vignettes of synthetic media. The documentary draws us in with intimate interviews and compelling visuals, exploring love as the central force behind art creation and addressing themes such as the invisibility of technology, the instability of reality, and the transformative potential of art in the digital era.

By navigating themes of plausible deniability and the violent potential for sexual violence enabled by deep fakes, Operator on st_age invites viewers to confront the ethical complexities of our increasingly digitized world. This commission, showcasing Operator's innovative approach and artistic practice, aims to inspire viewers to rethink their relationship with technology and envision a world where creativity, empathy, and innovation converge to shape a more inclusive and equitable society. 

Performing the System premiered on April 11, 2024, at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum as part of the public programming of Organismo | Art in Applied Critical Ecologies. 


RESEARCH CLUSTER
Performing the System

This episode of TBA21 on st_age strives to challenge the entrenched dualities of contemporary times and confront the societal implications of technology's current trajectory. As we explore the dynamic artistic practice of Operator on st_age, this research cluster aims to illuminate the intersections of art, technology, and sociopolitical discourse. Through publications, articles, and other sources, this collection of resources delves into the power and politics of AI, synthetic media, and immersive and digital art.


PODCAST
Decoding Deep Fakes: AI, Ethics, and the Power of Media
Contributors: Henry Ajder and Sam Gregory
Conducted by Marta Peirano

With the rise of artificial intelligence, a new frontier emerges in human cognition and experience. Concepts such as consciousness and creativity are constantly redefined by algorithms and code performances. Extraction, manipulation, and radicalization are some of the intensified side effects of applying computational techniques to traditional media. Can adopting radical transparency, decentralization, and the inclusion of non-human perspectives help us steer this new media toward becoming a productive force of sustainability and regeneration? 

One of the central topics of this episode is the concept of deep fakes, an emergent technology with profound societal implications. The episode further delves into its intricacies through a podcast hosted by Marta Peirano, a journalist specializing in technology and power, who is joined by researcher specializing in deep fakes Henry Ajder and human rights advocate and technologist Sam Gregory. Together, they offer invaluable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges posed by synthetic media.