AI is turning the Smithsonian ... Note
Fast Company

AI is turning the Smithsonian into an illuminated fever dream

The National Mall is hosting summer festivities, including a FIFA fan zone and the upcoming Smithsonian Dreams installation. This public art event will project Refik Anadol's AI-generated visuals onto the Smithsonian Castle's facade. Anadol used AI to analyze millions of digitized items from the Smithsonian's vast collection, transforming data into a visual narrative. The installation, guided by the question of what the Smithsonian Castle might dream about, explores connections within the archive. It will be displayed for two nights, July 17 and 18, using Panasonic projection technology. The 20-minute show features thematic chapters, beginning with the Smithsonian's founder, James Smithson. Mapping various artworks and materials, the AI highlights connections within the collection. Projecting onto the castle's ornate and dark red facade presented a significant technical challenge. Forty-two projectors were strategically placed to overcome these architectural complexities. This extensive project involved 18 months of collaboration and three nights of lens focusing. The installation aims to inspire curiosity and encourage visitors to explore the Smithsonian's offerings and their own dreams.
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