Open Codes | Living in Digital Worlds

TO UNDERSTAND THE WORLD WE INHABIT.
TO UNDERSTAND THE WORLD WE LIVE IN.
TO UNDERSTAND THE WORLD THAT SUSTAINS US.

Today we live significant portions of our lives in an artificial, human-made world of data. Digital codes provide access to this world. When we turn on a mobile phone, for example, we are immediately confronted with the prompt »enter passcode.« In Paris it is also commonplace to get into a house or room by entering a numerical code at the door. Codes are crucial keys for access to our contemporary world, both analogue and digital.

By means of some 200 artistic and scientific works, the exhibition displays the world of digital codes and the future forms of life influenced by them in eight areas: #GenealogyOfCode, #Coding, #MachineLearning,#AlgorithmicGovernance, #AlgorithmicEconomy, #VirtualReality, #Labor&Production, and #GeneticCode. The works presented offer you the chance of trying out an unusual way of engaging with art and defining your own exhibition visit a bit. Unlike with the conventional reception of analogue paintings, sculptures, and installations, the horizon of meaning in »Open Codes« is only revealed in the process of observers physical interacting with the works. The participation of the audience is the moment when the works come into being materially. Participatory and analytical engagement with the works therefore includes new forms of concentration and meditation as well as divertissement. The »discours« of the exhibition is arranged as an architectural »parcours« so that you have the opportunity to stroll around autonomously among islands of art and knowledge or to be active and creative at the places called »work stations,« that is, to converse with other people or to take a break and rest. Because the works unfold in a particularly fascinating way when observed for a longer period of time and we want you to explore the works intensively, we are providing drinks and snacks free of charge. Admission to the exhibition is free – and you will experience a combination of a laboratory and a lounge, a learning environment and park oasis.

Video dokumentary:

ZKM | Videostudio

Camera: Frenz Jordt, Andy Koch, Martina Rotzal, Christina Zartmann
Editing: Christina Zartmann
Music: Alexander Rufire, Computer World
Concept: Regina Hock, Christina Zartmann