#SOPHYGRAY

Nov 21, 2021 to Feb 13, 2022
Kunstverein Ruhr, Essen

The solo exhibition #SOPHYGRAY by Nadja Verena Marcin provided an immersive exploration of artificial intelligence from a feminist perspective. The exhibition featured an interactive audio bot that engaged visitors in thought-provoking conversations about identity, gender roles, and technology. Grounded in influential feminist texts, the bot encouraged critical reflection on how AI shapes societal narratives and reinforces stereotypes.

A central element of the exhibition was a large-scale mixed-media installation, comprising two corresponding video projections that depicted the artist in a dual role—both as a gynoid and as a human. This installation served as a spatial extension of the bot, creating a dynamic space for critical engagement and dialogue.

A highlight of the exhibition was the live performance by Nadja Verena Marcin on January 15, 2022, which responded to visitor interactions with #SOPHYGRAY. The performance critically examined the portrayal and use of female voices in intelligent systems such as Amazon’s Alexa, Microsoft’s Cortana, and Apple’s Siri, shedding light on the gender biases embedded in AI technologies.

A comprehensive exhibition catalog documenting the key themes, visitor interactions, and performance insights is currently in preparation.

Institution:

Kunstverein Ruhr e.V.
Kopstadtplatz 12
45127 Essen – Germany

Link to exhibition:

#SOPHYGRAY

Sponsors:

Ministerium für Kultur und Wissenschaft NRW, NEUSTART Modul C des BBK,
Kulturamt der Stadt Essen, Novatec, EPSON, Allbau, Gerriets, Repro Terminal, Aquasun, die Sparkasse Essen, Berliner Stadtteilzentrum Süd-Ost

© 2024 Nadja Verena Marcin