Asking “how does an artistic model of infection differ from one that is scientifically valuable?”, boredomresearch (Bournemouth University) contributed to the discussion on ‘Digital Convergences’ at this years international BFX Conference on special effects at Bournemouth University. With keynote presentations from Professor Lev Manovich & Professor Sean Cubitt the conference looked to understand the changed situation brought about by the impact of digital technologies on moving image disciplines.
In the ‘Practices & Technologies’ panel we presented our collaborative research with Dr Paddy Brock (University of Glasgow) for our Silent Signal project AfterGlow. The importance of combining arts and science through the use of digital technology to create a creative blending of concepts was central to our discussion. The talk discussed similarities in each other’s art/science practice, especially a focus on abstractions to create fictional representations. For example in art we must at least have some visual and/or conceptual connection relating to human experiences and in epidemiology insights that might lead to practical interventions and lives saved are of key importance.
During this stimulating two days, delegates recognised the value of challenging existing conventions to further explore the importance of the spatial patterns of malaria transmission. And for us it was interesting to hear how other artistic practitioners are working in a polymathic approach to enhance 3D visualisations, evolutionary art and game experiences.
boredomresearch, November 2014