My Experience at the “Into the Future” Tech-Art Exhibition
This past September, I had the incredible opportunity to showcase my work at the “Into the Future” Tech-Art Exhibition held at Whitespace Gallery in Edinburgh. The exhibition brought together artists from diverse disciplines who use technology as a key part of their creative practice. It was a fantastic experience to contribute and to see the cutting-edge innovations and ideas on display.
How It Began
In August 2024, I came across an open call for tech-driven artworks to be exhibited in Edinburgh, and I was immediately intrigued. The exhibition accepted a wide range of formats, including digital designs, interactive installations, augmented reality (AR) experiences, generative art, and even 3D-printed sculptures. After submitting my work, I was thrilled to learn that my artworks had been selected for the showcase.
My Contributions
For the exhibition, I displayed three giclée prints of my “Largest First” Optimal Circle Packing artwork. This technique involves growing circles from every pixel of an initial image, prioritizing the largest circles and locking them in place before moving to progressively smaller ones. The result is a striking, bubble-like composition with a 3D effect, giving the illusion that the circles are spheres rising from the surface.
In addition to the framed prints, I brought along a unique cushion featuring my art – the augmented reality feature worked even when scanned on the cushion! I also showcased a small 3D-printed sandstone piece, an experimental tactile version of my work. To complement these physical pieces, I included an interactive digital version of my circle-packing art, allowing attendees to “pop” the bubbles on a touchscreen.
Preparing for the Exhibition
Preparing for the show involved some important decisions about presentation and pricing. Anita, the exhibition curator, suggested larger prints for greater visual impact. I opted for 30x30cm giclée prints printed and framed locally at Bare Branding. Each piece was priced at £55, the cushion at £50, and the sandstone print at £250 – reflecting its one-off nature and production costs.
The interactive piece was particularly well-received, and I was able to run it on a Raspberry Pi with a touchscreen, complete with two different bubble-popping experiences and a restart button for easy use.
The Opening Night
The opening night was a wonderful celebration of art and technology, complete with a DJ performance and neon mask painting. Each artist was invited to introduce themselves and their work. Sharing the story behind my process and seeing others engage with my art was immensely rewarding.
Reflection
Participating in “Into the Future” was an unforgettable experience. It provided a platform to share my creative journey and interact with a community that appreciates the intersection of art and technology. The exhibition showcased a diverse array of tech-art forms and fostered meaningful connections between artists and attendees.
I am grateful to the organizers for creating this wonderful opportunity and to everyone who engaged with my work. Exhibiting my art at Whitespace Gallery has inspired me to continue exploring and pushing the boundaries of technology in art.
To the future of creative innovation – may it always inspire and connect us!
Artwork Details:
- Title: Largest First Circle Packing Series (also known as my ‘Spheres of Influence’ artworks)
- Technique: Algorithmic circle packing with 3D effects
- Formats: Giclée prints, cushion, interactive digital version, 3D-printed sandstone
Special Thanks:
- Anita and the Hello Art team
- Bare Branding for their support in production
- Everyone who attended and supported the exhibition
Written by
David Oxley
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