A/V installation, 2009.
Role: Art direction (in collaboration with Yannick Jacquet, Olivier Ratsi & Joanie Lemercier), motion design.
Production: Nabi Art center
Coordination & project management: ANTIVJ
Seoul, Korea, August 2009.
The mapping piece in New Songdo City, which marked the first-ever installation of its kind in the area, was a thought-provoking exploration of the city's future and the intricate dynamics between tradition and progress. Situated within the vibrant landscape of Incheon's Free Economic Zone project in South Korea, New Songdo City embodies the vision of a "u-City" - a groundbreaking concept that integrates ubiquitous computing into the fabric of urban life.
Nestled on artificial land reclaimed from the sea, this city-in-progress provided an ideal backdrop for our mapping piece, inviting contemplation on the interplay between the past and the future, and the evolving role of humanity within a meticulously controlled and optimized environment. As the visuals unfolded, viewers were invited to question the delicate balance between ancient heritage and the relentless march of technological advancement.
This mapping piece delved into themes that evoked a sense of both fascination and unease, perhaps leaving an intriguing aftertaste of an impending apocalypse. The juxtaposition of ancient and modern elements served as a metaphorical lens through which viewers could reflect upon the consequences of rapid urban development and the potential loss of human connection in an increasingly automated world.
By challenging the boundaries of conventional perception and encouraging contemplation on the human experience within this intricately designed cityscape, our mapping piece offered a unique perspective on the complexities of New Songdo City. It prompted viewers to delve into questions surrounding the delicate interplay between progress and tradition, while acknowledging the potential implications of an overly controlled and optimized environment.
As the first-ever mapping installation in New Songdo City, this project represented a significant milestone, not only in the city's cultural landscape but also in the broader realm of contemporary art. Through our artistic exploration, we aimed to spark conversations, provoke thoughts, and inspire a deeper understanding of the multifaceted relationship between technology, humanity, and the urban landscape.
Ultimately, this mapping piece served as a powerful reminder that the future of cities is not solely defined by architectural marvels and technological innovations but by the harmonious integration of human values, cultural heritage, and sustainable progress. It invited viewers to contemplate the intricate tapestry of urban life and ponder the path forward, ensuring that as cities evolve, they remain vibrant, inclusive, and true to the essence of what it means to be human.
