Tuesday, October 29, 2024

CENTRE PHI presents pure enchantment this fall!

My experience of The Golden Key. You are allowed to take photos of your experience as each visitor will have a unique experience. Photos © LENA GHIO 2024
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CODED DREAMS / THE GOLDEN KEY / TULPAMANCER  

> until January 12, 2025

Step into a realm where technology and art entwine, crafting enchanting narratives that blur the lines between reality and imagination. The Coded Dreams exhibition at the PHI Centre in Montreal invites visitors to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence through two immersive experiences: Tulpamancer and The Golden Key.

In the Coded Dreams experience you are truly alone. For the first part, you answer a questionnaire that will inform your AI / VR journey. In my experience, some elements were eerily familiar even if not perfect reproductions of images from my past. 

Unlocking the Mind with Tulpamancer

The journey begins with Tulpamancer, a virtual reality installation that invites introspection. Participants are greeted by a retro computer screen displaying vibrant green text, leading them to reflect on their past and future through a series of personal questions. Here, the concept of "tulpa," derived from Tibetan Buddhism, takes center stage. This notion of manifesting thought becomes a bridge for exploring one’s memories and aspirations.

Once equipped with a VR headset, each visitor is guided by their AI counterpart, Tulpa, through a uniquely crafted digital landscape that delves deep into their psyche. Each interaction is a singular experience, ephemeral yet impactful, as the AI weaves a narrative that resonates personally with its participant. As Matthew Niederhauser, one of the artists behind this transformative work, notes, responses can vary widely; some emerge moved to tears, while others may feel discomfort, prompting introspection on their emotional reactions.

A Collective Narrative in The Golden Key

The adventure continues with The Golden Key, where the boundaries of storytelling are pushed further. This installation harnesses the collective imagination of its audience, inviting them to interact with an AI that generates an endless folktale. Here, the audience becomes an integral part of the narrative, influencing its direction and themes. Projected on three walls, the immersive visuals draw from a treasure trove of global folk tales, creating an endless tapestry of interconnected stories.

As participants contribute their ideas and phrases, the AI stitches these threads into a rich narrative fabric, illustrating how technology can amplify human creativity. The whimsical and sometimes bizarre outcomes—such as giant bagels floating in medieval lakes—underscore both the potential and limitations of AI, revealing its role as a modern trickster in the storytelling landscape.

Left: Marc D'Acosta / Right: Matthew Niederhauser Photos © LENA GHIO 2024

Reflections on Technology and Society

Niederhauser and his colleague Marc Da Costa aim not only to entertain but also to foster critical conversations about the implications of AI in our lives. Their works highlight the dual nature of technology: while it can create space for reflection and creativity, it also poses questions about manipulation and privacy. As Niederhauser points out, major tech companies hold vast amounts of personal information, and understanding this dynamic is crucial for navigating our increasingly digital existence.

The Coded Dreams exhibition is a remarkable exploration of the intersection of technology and art, challenging visitors to engage with their own stories while contemplating the future shaped by AI. This Canadian premiere, previously showcased at festivals like South by Southwest and the Venice Biennale, promises an unforgettable experience, inviting you to shape a collective narrative that resonates long after your visit. Don’t miss this chance to unlock the doors of imagination and witness the enchanting possibilities that lie at the crossroads of art and artificial intelligence.

As you approach the exhibition at 407, Saint-Pierre Street, you may feel a thrill of anticipation. The space, open Wednesday through Sunday, promises a captivating journey that lasts about 50 minutes—a perfect escape for those aged 13 and up. With ticket prices starting at $28 for youth and $30 for adults, this experience is accessible yet profound, offering insights into the technological innovations that are shaping our world. TICKETS

THE STORYTELLER > until February 23, 2025

Unveiling Enchantment: Jim Henson’s The Storyteller: The Seven Ravens

Step into a magical universe with Jim Henson's The Storyteller: The Seven Ravens, a groundbreaking augmented reality storybook that brilliantly combines classic fairy tale charm with modern technology. This innovative experience is narrated by the celebrated Neil Gaiman, whose storytelling prowess invites readers of all ages to engage with an age-old tale in a refreshing way.

Harnessing state-of-the-art optical see-through devices, The Seven Ravens transforms the storytelling landscape. Captivating visuals and interactive elements converge to create an immersive adventure, allowing users to witness the story unfold in ways previously unimaginable. As you navigate through the pages, the boundary between reader and narrative dissolves, making each moment feel personal and alive.

TRAILER

Felix & Paul Studios, renowned for their pioneering work in immersive entertainment, stands behind this project. Their commitment to pushing technological boundaries reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of storytelling. With a portfolio that includes the first-ever cinematic VR experience and collaborations with industry titans like Cirque du Soleil and the Obamas, Felix & Paul Studios is at the forefront of reimagining how we experience art.

Supporting this visionary work is the Société de la Place des Arts de Montréal, a cultural hub dedicated to enhancing access to performing arts while showcasing both emerging talents and established artists. Located at 175 Sainte-Catherine St W, Montreal, Place des Arts serves as a vibrant venue for artistic expression and innovation.

The Storyteller: The Seven Ravens is not just a story; it’s an invitation to step beyond the page and into a world where imagination reigns supreme, a perfect blend of technology and narrative that promises to captivate hearts and minds. Although not recommended for very young children, you MUST take your children 8 years and older. I simply adored this exquisite work. Get your free TICKETS HERE.

Paul Raphaël  from Félix & Paul Studios Photos © LENA GHIO 2024

LENA GHIO   

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