Origins of Imagination
“Origins of Imagination” is a major new interactive artwork by British artist Dominic Harris
commissioned for Naturalis Biodiversity Centre in Leiden, Netherlands. This monumental museum project illustrates
Harris’ groundbreaking fusion of interactive art, cutting-edge technology, and the wonders of the natural world.
Harris, already known for creating interactive artworks, at Naturalis pushes these boundaries further in creating a massively participatory artwork inviting visitors of all ages to embark on a unique creative journey. Inspired by the simple, yet profound, drawings made by Charles Darwin’s children on his manuscript of “On the Origin of Species,” “Origins of Imagination” captures the essence of human curiosity and the power of personal expression.
At the heart of this immersive art experience lies the butterfly, a recurring motif in Harris\'s work that symbolises transformation, beauty, and hope. Visitors are invited to contribute their own hand-drawn butterflies, which Harris then evolves using AI into more realistic butterflies that then fly to their colour-organised position within the artwork. With each contribution and interaction, these butterflies dynamically shift the look of the artwork. Every butterfly becomes a part of the permanent collection at Naturalis, also viewable outside of Naturalis using a phone to scan the QR code on the drawing.
“Origins of Imagination” serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, encouraging visitors to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect biodiversity. Harris’ work underscores the importance of individual actions and creativity, and serves as a living testament to creativity.
Harris, already known for creating interactive artworks, at Naturalis pushes these boundaries further in creating a massively participatory artwork inviting visitors of all ages to embark on a unique creative journey. Inspired by the simple, yet profound, drawings made by Charles Darwin’s children on his manuscript of “On the Origin of Species,” “Origins of Imagination” captures the essence of human curiosity and the power of personal expression.
At the heart of this immersive art experience lies the butterfly, a recurring motif in Harris\'s work that symbolises transformation, beauty, and hope. Visitors are invited to contribute their own hand-drawn butterflies, which Harris then evolves using AI into more realistic butterflies that then fly to their colour-organised position within the artwork. With each contribution and interaction, these butterflies dynamically shift the look of the artwork. Every butterfly becomes a part of the permanent collection at Naturalis, also viewable outside of Naturalis using a phone to scan the QR code on the drawing.
“Origins of Imagination” serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, encouraging visitors to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect biodiversity. Harris’ work underscores the importance of individual actions and creativity, and serves as a living testament to creativity.
ID : 2473604667172499
Date: 23 / 11 / 2024 - 18:44