Investigating anthropogenic existential risks through art

Abstract

Through the creation of an art installation called Local Warming, and by analyzing energy-related art works by other artists, I was able to develop a methodology in my attempt to answer the question of what can be done about anthropogenic threats to humankind. Local Warming is a large array of 72 collimated infrared emitting robotic heaters that provide a "bubble" of heat energy around the user as they pass through the installation. This project serves as an example of how energy-technology development can seem threatening and can also be interpreted as the exact opposite: a system that provides us with direct control over our own energy. This serves as a metaphor for our relationship with energy on a global scale. While we may feel that anthropogenic existential threats, such as global warming, are beyond our control, I would argue that these threats are actually opportunities to improve our own understanding of the universe around us. Ultimately, the presence of a global risk can act as a common-cause around which humankind can rally and thrive. More specifically, my primary interest is provoking a conversation on how anthropogenic existential-risks can be thwarted. My methodology has five repeating stages, in no particular order: identifying motivations, creating physical artwork, developing or borrowing a framework, establishing provocations, and reviewing the artwork of other artists who are creating similar work. For my motivations I make assertions that I do not intend to prove such as "human life is important" or "extinction is an undesirable outcome." The purpose of stating my motivations is not to create an argument about the meaning of life, but to help the reader understand my artistic practice as it relates to the topic of anthropogenic existential risks. The creation of a framework serves as a rudder to help guide the creative process. The questions that arise from the creation of this framework are then used as provocations. These provocations need not be iron clad or consistent in their logical makeup, and they often conflict in a way that produces tension. Lastly, the review of works by other artists enables me to put my own work into context.