SynSoma

by mikey | June 2, 2011 at 08:01 pm

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Subtle Technologies Festival 2011 presents: SynSoma

June 3 – 12, 2011

Robyn Moody + Steve Daniels

*Hotshot Gallery

181 Augusta Avenue, Toronto

Curated by Michael Alstad + Camille Turner

SynSoma is an exhibition of kinetic works which explore the relationship between the artificial and organic through subtle mechanical mimicry of natural systems. Both artists utilise light and movement in evocative ways. Robyn Moody's work results in a mesmerizing play of light and emergent patterns whereas Steve Daniels' use of light as an interactive element triggers a cross-species gestural engagement.

Robyn Moody's Power 2: Heart Lake, as seen through the eyes of Manley Natland, adopts a closed system with simple repetitious mechanical functions made up of hundreds of spinning black gears of different sizes embedded with small tilted mirrors. Modeled after Heart Lake, a water source within the Alberta oilsands, the dark glistening surface suggests the separation of oil from sand through destructive processes.

Steve Daniels' sessile is a colony of 25 kinetic sculptures incorporating an open system where each robot responds to changes in ambient light levels by opening and closing their limbs. A viewer's shadow becomes a part of the colony's environment and a medium of interaction. Subtle differences arise from a myriad of factors including small variations in construction, surface imperfections, their orientation to ground and most importantly their internal emotional state

Subtle Technologies is a gathering of artists, scientists, technologists, engineers and the general public. We share cross-disciplinary ideas, explore new technologies, showcase creativity and incubate the next generation of practitioners at the intersection of art, science and technology.