kennedy+swan (DE)
Mixed Signals
Series of augmented watercolors, 60 x 85 cm, Fine-Art Print
2023
kennedy+swan, Mixed Signals, augmented watercolors, 2023
How can something technical like Artificial Intelligence – so often associated with our alienation from Nature – help us listen to and communicate with non-human beings?
Upon closer examination, most animals and even plants have their unique forms of communication – languages that we’re only beginning to decode with modern technology. Yet, the real question remains: Is humanity prepared to embrace the profound insights offered by Nature’s own sonic dialogues?
kennedy+swan created a series of watercolors that can be scanned using their mobile app, merging the tactile with the digital. Each image is augmented with an interactive virtual scene, expanding the narrative of the paintings. The 3D elements, handcrafted by the artists in the form of miniatures, sculptures, and drawings are then digitized to complete the augmented reality overlay.
kennedy+swan (founded in 2013) comprises the work of the two artists Bianca Kennedy and Swan Collective. When working together, they explore the future of non-human intelligence and its impact on plants, animals, machines, and humans. kennedy+swan exhibit internationally in galleries, museums, and festivals. Exhibitions include the Lyon Biennial, Gropius Bau Berlin, Kunstmuseum Stuttgart, Museum der bildenden Künste Leipzig, Schering Stiftung Berlin, CCBB Rio de Janeiro, Loop Discover Award and Sundance Film Festival. They have been awarded Studio Quantum Residency for 2023 and BIFOLD/Schering Scholarship for 2025. They live in Berlin.