Synthetic Folklore
2019
Laser cut plexiglass
140 × 100 cm
Janek Simon (1977) is inspired by scientific theories and models as well as by academic disciplines such as geography and economics, the functions and specifics of which are subject to constant civilizational change. Simon’s objects often take the form of visualizations based on mathematical formulas and statistical data. Their experimental and anarchical dimensions articulate clashes between scientific theories and the realities of everyday life, sociological phenomena, and politics. Many of his artistic pieces involve complex electronic systems that are made from scratch in accordance with a do-it-yourself philosophy. Simon consciously continues to search for practices and strategies that provide alternatives to those found within our contemporary culture of mass production and the prevailing system of artistic production.
Synthetic Folklore is Simon’s newest production about regional textile traditions. Although textiles and motifs are widely used the world over, Simon sets up algorithmic thinking as a possible tool for the creation of universal value. The project uses a machine-learning algorithm that has analysed over ten thousand traditional weaving styles and motifs, combining and morphing them into global composites. The work creates an analogy between traditional textiles and the digital pixilation of early videogames. The geometric restrictions of loom-work and digital visualisations create a trans-historical parallel to a ubiquitous global tradition.
The series was first presented in a solo exhibition at the Ujazdowski Castle in Warsaw and ties the strong textile traditions of Eastern Europe to those of cultures in Africa, Latin America, India and beyond.