Go Masked and Chat with Nature
Interactive Art Project ‘Synocene’ Brings People, Nature, and Technology Together
How can artificial intelligence play a role in the relationship between humans and non-humans? Artist Marina Wainer seeks to connect people, nature, and modern technology through her interactive art project ‘Synocene’. From 10th to 15th December, people of all ages are invited to participate in a unique workshop, free of charge, held in and around the Ulvenhout Forest. The workshop includes a short walk (maximum 30 minutes) through the Ulvenhout Forest while wearing a reflective mask, followed by an indoor chatbot conversation with elements of nature, such as trees and water. The entire workshop lasts about 2.5 hours. Activities are free and suitable for all ages.
The workshop is held twice a day, at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The starting location is the Bos en Beek group accommodation, located at Chaamseweg 29 in Ulvenhout. Parking is available, and the Geerbroekseweg bus stop is right at the entrance (Bus 132 takes 20 minutes from Breda Station). Each session accommodates up to 10 participants. Register as an individual or group by emailing: synocene@gmail.com. Include your preferred date and time, your name (or, for groups, the name of the contact person), email address, and phone number.
Experience and Conversation
By encouraging participants to experience nature and modern technology in a new way, Wainer hopes to spark thoughts or emotions. The aim is to inspire conversations—not only between humans but also between humans and non-humans. Ultimately, participants are encouraged to reflect on the connection between humanity, nature, and artificial intelligence.
Sound Installation
The workshops will result in audio recordings (with participants’ permission) that will later become part of the 360° sound installation ‘Synocene’. Workshop participants will be able to hear their own contributions, combined with natural and artificially generated sounds. The installation, housed in a minimalist space to enhance the auditory experience, has yet to find its location in the Netherlands. Keep an eye on local media for updates.
More Information
For her work, Wainer selects Natura 2000 areas and travels throughout Europe with her ‘Synocene’ installation. She has previously visited Ireland, and until September 2024, the installation was displayed in Brussels. For more information about Synocene, visit Synocene - beyond the Anthropocene – iMAL.
