York University’s School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (AMPD) launched an exciting new exhibition titled Tentacular Futures: Creative Technologies at the York University Markham Campus. Hosted at York’s brand new Markham Campus, this exhibition explored the intersection of art, technology and critical thought, featuring works created by artists, faculty and alumni. The exhibition was curated by faculty members in the brand new Creative Technologies program, including Marissa Largo and Rebecca Caines, with special guest artists - York alumni Megan Smith and Gao Yujie - from the University of British Columbia. Tentacular Futures showcased the transformative potential of blending creativity and technology. Visitors experienced innovative methods for data visualization, large-scale 3D fabric printing, immersive mixed-reality environments, spatial audio and virtual cinematography, and living bio art, each installation offering a fresh perspective on the possibilities that arise when the digital and physical worlds merge.
The exhibition not only highlighted technological innovation, but also raised important questions about ethics, sustainability and the evolving relationship between humans and the environment.
Professor Jane Tingley’s installation, for example, visualized forest data by blending nature with digital technologies, encouraging viewers to reflect on how technology can engage with the natural world.
Other highlights included Professor Hector Centeno Garcia’s virtual cinematography, exploring the intricate relationships between technology and life, and MFA Visual Arts student Vlad Kanic’s piece, which invited visitors to interact with algae.
Tentacular Futures underscores AMPD’s commitment to innovation through its Creative Technologies program. This trailblazing program empowers students to develop multidisciplinary creative skills, with an emphasis on social applications and contexts.