A dialogue between a philosopher and an artist

Text by Yumin Ao, Old drawing generator API, 20223.08.12

Setting: A cozy cafe with dimmed lighting and comfortable seating. The philosopher and the artist sit at a table, engaged in an animated conversation. Soft instrumental music plays in the background.

Philosopher: [Leaning forward] But what will it result in? I do not doubt it will become a successful art season, but honestly, even a big cultural event like the Documenta in Kassel cannot convince me of being better than an inconspicuous but substantial book.

Artist: [Thoughtful] A substantial book within a library caters to thousands of readers, yet its reach is confined to those who share similar backgrounds and may be inclined to bypass artistic practices. While a book can offer assistance, it falls short of granting a true grasp of the world. This is akin to appreciating art – if an individual who enjoys reading lacks interest in the arts, the connection is missing. In contrast, artists are undergoing increased diversification and are engaging with wider audiences.

Philosopher: [Nods] I see your point. Possessing knowledge does not inherently equate to possessing aesthetic sensibility.

Artist: Precisely. Aesthetics represents a form of wisdom, a unique perspective on the world.

Philosopher: [Smiles] Well, you can ask me the same question about my philosophy, what will it result in, I don’t know an answer. I just love it and believe it will be good, but that is what you say too, and you have even more probability that people will agree.

Artist: [Shakes head] I won’t pose this inquiry regarding philosophy. The rationale behind my restraint is the diversity among philosophers, rendering your concepts inadequate to encompass them all.

Philosopher: [Pauses] Fair point. But anyway, I am just a bit confused about the many very modern performances that I have watched now on YouTube. They make me curious, but I cannot find in them works of art.

Artist: [Leaning in] Having extensively delved into the intersection of art, science, and technology, my fascination with the evolution and metamorphosis of modern art grows stronger. The absence of these artworks in your perception is attributed to the limitations of your artistic perspective and your understanding of the interplay between art and the world.

Philosopher: [Raises an eyebrow] I am also curious about the forefront of philosophy.

Artist: [Nods] Perhaps it’s worth considering staying attuned to these advancements. Taking a step back from the field and providing opportunities for the younger generation of scholars could be another approach.

Philosopher: [Ponders] Do you think it is necessary to write a sentence like “Visitors will be entranced by this transformative experience, provoking contemplation on the intricate connections between the human body, memory, and historical context”? Why not understatement, low key? I wonder if there is anyone having a transformative experience when watching a performance.

Artist: [Pauses] Upon reexamination, I discover that it aligns nicely with my interpretation of the artists’ artistic expression. Personally, I tend to adopt a more subdued approach, but I don’t believe that it is suitable in this context when portraying artists.

Philosopher: [Sighs] Perhaps I am just too old not to become electrified. I really admire your work and talents but – you know what I also think.

Artist: [Smiles] When conversing with both my contemporaries and the younger cohorts, I’ve observed genuine captivation with the specific programs. They’ve conveyed to me their sense of connection with certain artists, referring to themselves as part of the ACGN realm—comprising Anime, Comic, Game, and Novel enthusiasts. It’s fascinating how the ACGN realm has intertwined with technology, creating these captivating forms of expression. This convergence has expanded the boundaries of art, offering new ways to engage and evoke emotions. For instance, the integration of virtual reality and augmented reality has allowed artists to craft immersive experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. Merely acknowledging one’s own age is insufficient.

Philosopher: [Smiles] It reflects an eagerness for anticipating respect and upholding authority. Therefore, avoid feelings of anxiety and envy; rather, extend kindness towards and embrace the younger generation.

Artist: [Raises his coffee cup] Cheers to embracing new perspectives and evolving with the ever-changing world of art and philosophy.

[They clink their cups, and continue their conversation, delving deeper into the nuances of art, philosophy, and their shared appreciation for the evolving world of creative expression.]

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Art is forever an exploration of possibilities

Liu Xiaoyi, 2023.08.10

The Goettingen University in Germany is hosting the “Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art Season (CAPAS),” extending an invitation to artists across Asia and diverse domains. The deadline for Open Call will be extended until the 22nd of August, 2023. The CAPAS serves as a splendid platform for artists to showcase their talents and delve deeply into the realm where art and technology converge.

CAPAS is curated by Dr. Yumin Ao of the University of Goettingen and co-conceived alongside Liu Xiaoyi, the Artistic Director of Emergency Stairs in Singapore. In the year 2022, Dr. Yumin Ao initiated the inaugural “International Symposium on Contemporary Asian Theatre and Forum for Young European Asian Artists,” marking the inception of a journey to foster intercontinental artistic discourse between Europe and Eurasia. Both curators have long focused on the symbiotic relationship between art and technology, examining how technological advancement alters the creative process, aesthetics, and audience engagement. Since 2018, Liu Xiaoyi has been at the forefront of the fusion of technology and art, expressing within his “Writing with AI” project, “We are continually responding to the era and society in which we reside, including the developments in the technology of this era… Technology invariably shapes how we think, live, move, and create.”

The open call has appointed three discerning judges: Dr. Georg Hajdu (Germany), Hiroshi Koike (Japan), and Yu Rongjun (China).

Regarding CAPAS as a potential platform for cultural exchange, Yu Rongjun remarked, “Stones from other hills may serve to polish the jade. Cultural and artistic exchange is the cornerstone of mutual understanding among people. It is only through a mutual exchange that the youth can better understand themselves, comprehend the world, and broaden their perspectives and cognition.” Yu Rongjun holds the esteemed position of a National Level One Playwright in China and also serves as the Deputy General Manager of Shanghai Performing Arts Group, ardently fostering cross-cultural communication.

Renowned Japanese director, Hiroshi Koike, holds a special interest in the theme of art and technology fusion. He stated, “Art is forever an exploration of possibilities, a venture into profound experimentation. I have consistently adhered to this principle in my creative works. The grandeur of performing arts lies in its myriad of possibilities. Certainly, technology constitutes an essential element, offering immense potential to shape an unprecedented world.”

Undoubtedly, we must not disregard the realm of performing arts and the formidable uncertainty it confronts. The abrupt emergence of the global pandemic and the seismic shifts in geopolitics have further exacerbated this predicament. Such uncertainty might even cast its influence upon an artist’s perception of their professional identity. However, it is precisely within the confines of this uncertainty that artistic creation exhibits its distinctive allure, transcending reality to explore a myriad of possibilities. Within this uncertain environment, performers may conceivably possess heightened creative latitude, inclining towards innovative experimentation and, unexpectedly, ushering unforeseen vocational opportunities. Dr. Yumin Ao asserts, “Amidst all this, the most crucial realization lies in recognizing that uncertainty is an integral facet of existence, and it is through their expressions and creative prowess that artists respond to and interpret this uncertainty. It is within such a milieu that they can convey emotions, thoughts, and experiences uniquely, conjuring works that stand apart from the ordinary. Thus, though uncertainty presents its challenges, it concurrently constitutes a juncture teeming with prospects, an epoch capable of kindling creativity and propelling advancement.”

The “Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art Season” aspires to harness the collection of works to collectively contemplate the interplay between technological transformation and artistic creation across diverse Asian landscapes. Whether an actor, dancer, musician, or interdisciplinary artist, we wholeheartedly encourage you to submit your proposals and immerse yourself in this exploration. We offer an artistic grant of €400 for each selected work and will engage in discussions regarding travel support and other matters as deemed necessary. Beyond live performances, we are expanding our influence through online platforms. Additionally, submissions suitable for virtual spaces are welcomed, and we will provide an artistic fee of €200 for each online project.

Join the “Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art Season,” and wield the force of technological transformation to forge an enigmatic future!

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Exploring the interrelationship and convergence of art and technology

Yumin Ao, 2023.06.12

Göttingen, Germany – In an exciting development, the highly anticipated Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art Season for 2024 has been officially announced. The art season aims to showcase the vibrant and innovative works of Asian artists, focusing on the theme of the convergence of art and technology. Both in-person showcases and virtual performances will be featured, providing a dynamic platform for artistic expression and experimentation.

The call for submissions has been opened, inviting Asian artists to submit their groundbreaking works for consideration. The event organizers are particularly interested in performances that explore the intersection of traditional art forms with modern technology, pushing the boundaries of creativity and pushing the envelope of what is possible in the realm of performance art. The event invites applications from artists involved in various disciplines, including theatre, dance, music, cross-media, and interdisciplinary performing arts/performance arts. Eligibility for application extends to artists residing in any region of Asia or those who identify themselves as Asian artists but live outside of Asia.

To ensure a diverse and comprehensive selection, a distinguished panel of experts has been assembled. The panel includes Prof. Dr. Georg Hajdu, renowned for his expertise in music technology and composition, Hiroshi Koike, a visionary director known for his innovative approach to theatre, and Rongjun YU, an esteemed playwright and artistic director in contemporary performance art. Their collective knowledge and discerning eye will guide the selection process, ensuring a high standard of artistic excellence.

Assisting the panel is a team of accomplished curators. Dr. Yumin Ao, a scholar and a curator with a deep understanding of Asian contemporary art, and Xiaoyi Liu, one of the most promising figures at the forefront of the experimental theatre and cultural exchange network in Asia and an experienced curator with expertise in performance art, will contribute their expertise to shape and curate the event, ensuring a cohesive and impactful experience for the audience.

One of the distinctive features of this year’s event is the emphasis on virtual performances alongside in-person showcases. The organizers recognize the power of technology in expanding the reach and accessibility of art, and they aim to provide a platform for artists to explore the possibilities of digital mediums. Virtual performances will offer a unique and immersive experience for viewers, transcending physical boundaries and inviting a global audience to engage with the performances.

“We are thrilled to bring together such a talented panel of experts and curators to select and curate the Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art season in Germany,” said the event curator, Dr. Yumin Ao. “The convergence of art and technology is an exciting and ever-evolving field, and we look forward to showcasing the diverse and innovative works that emerge from this dynamic fusion.”

The event promises to be a celebration of Asian artistic expression and a testament to the transformative power of performance art. Artists are encouraged to submit their applications for consideration, and audiences worldwide can eagerly anticipate an immersive and thought-provoking experience at the intersection of art and technology.

For more information about the event and the call for submissions, please visit the official website of Contemporary Asian Performing Arts and Performance Art Season 2024.