A model of future making and how experimental practice, research and interdisciplinary collaborations meld together to make new systems of thought, doing and being.

ANAT CEO, Melissa DeLaney delivered a presentation at the 13th EAI International Conference: ArtsIT, Interactivity & Game Creation, in Abu Dhabi, 13-15 November 2024. Exploring the intersection of art and technology at the ArtsIT Conference, hosted by New York University Abu Dhabi, the three-day event brings together international experts in an exploration of how digital media, virtual reality, AI, and more are shaping our cultural landscape.

Melissa co-presented the panel discussion “RECIPROCITY: regenerative futures through art + science + technology collaborations,” alongside Bruno Miguel Azevedo, Assistant Researcher at the University of Minho in Portugal. Together they explored future making and how experimental practice, research and interdisciplinary collaborations meld together to make new systems of thought, doing and being with a special focus on accessibility.

The panel featured an impressive lineup of interdisciplinary experts, including:

• Eirini (Irene) Mavrommati, Hellenic Open University, School of Applied Arts
• Maria Roussou, Associate Professor in Interactive Systems, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
• Elena Partesotti, Interdisciplinary Nucleus for Sound Studies (NICS) and the Brazilian Institute for Neuroscience (BRAINN), Unicamp
• Olívia Lapenta, Psychological Neuroscience Lab, Universidade do Minho
• Dr. Mar Gonzalez-Franco, Senior Research Scientist Manager, Google, USA
  
  

  Panel presentation, RECIPROCITY: regenerative futures through art + science + technology collaborations, Melissa DeLaney, Bruno Miguel Azevedo, Eirini Mavrommati, Maria Roussou, Elena Partesotti, Olívia Lapenta and Dr. Mar Gonzalez-Franco.

ArtsIT brings together a diverse international community of researchers, practitioners, artists, and academics from various disciplines to explore the dynamic relationship between art and information technology across a range of distinct domains. Since its inception in 2009, ArtsIT has been established as a prominent scientific platform for sharing cutting-edge research findings at the convergence of art, science, culture, performing arts, media, and technology.

Artistic practice utilising digital media serves not only as a means of analysing and critically reflecting on the influence of technology on our lives, culture, and society but also as a tool for fostering discussions on sustainability, responsibility, and human dignity.

Alongside this central focus featured topics include digital artworks and cultural heritage, audio art, games and gamification, immersive technologies, and interactive art installations. The event also highlights recent advancements that have made significant contributions to the field, including virtualisation, artificial intelligence and big data, virtual reality and the Metaverse.

The three days of presentations revealed a wealth of inspiring interdisciplinary projects that combine technology and creativity to address diverse human and societal needs. Some highlights include:

Multisensory Floral Clock

Developed by Gao Yang and her team at Oxford University, the Multisensory Floral Clock is a fascinating exploration of timekeeping using sensory interactions. The project integrates technology with floral notes and aromatic immersion to signal the passage of time. Gao Yang, a filmmaker and media artist now studying experimental psychology, exemplifies the fusion of art and science to enhance human experiences.

Love in Action: Gamifying Public Video Cameras

A team from the Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, led by Zhang Zhang, developed an innovative project that transforms public video cameras into tools for fostering human connections. The initiative gamifies social interactions in public spaces, encouraging relationship-building through technology. Learn more about the project or explore the research paper.

Live Coding and Empowering Young Girls Through STEAM

Jasmina Maric, a computer scientist at Chalmers University, is working at the intersection of live coding, performing arts, and education. Her projects empower young girls aged 8–15 by introducing them to coding and STEAM fields through music and diverse community engagement. Maric’s work is breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.

Generative Data-Driven Aesthetics Based on Brain Wave Data

Bruno Azevedo and his collaborators are exploring the creation of generative art informed by brain wave data. This research focuses on using AR/VR technologies to design calming spaces, such as virtual Zen gardens, enhancing mindfulness and meditation practices.

Adaptive Virtual Reality Meditation for Adults with ADHD

Researchers at New York University Abu Dhabi are leveraging VR to create tailored meditation experiences for adults with ADHD. This innovative approach, led by Alima Zhagufarova and Domna Banakou, investigates the potential of VR to foster wellness and calmness in users with attention challenges.

Giving Plants a Voice: Khaleeji Music and Nature

This interactive installation by Zhaniya Korpebayeva and colleagues connects Khaleeji music with nature, blending bio-art and technology to explore new ways of understanding the natural world. The project invites audiences to experience the interconnectedness of sound, technology, and living organisms.
Learn more about the installation.

Reflections

All in all, the conference underscored the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex challenges and envisioning regenerative futures. Projects like those presented highlight the innovative potential of blending technology with human creativity to reshape our systems of care, connection, and culture.

Melissa appreciated this opportunity to engage with global experts and explore groundbreaking ideas at the intersection of art and technology. The experience underscored the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping regenerative futures, aligning closely with ANAT’s mission.