New exhibition merges ancient and futuristic

Published on 14 November 2024

Artist Joshua Ingle at the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima.jpg

The latest exhibition at the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima (MAP mima) invites audiences to reconsider the role of artificial intelligence in society while exploring the shared themes and origin stories of diverse religions.

A captivating fusion of technology and artistry, Joshua Ingle: Roko showcases the visionary work of Joshua Ingle, who was awarded the prestigious 2024 MAP mima Summer Commission in August.

This interactive installation promises to inspire dialogue and reflection on the intersections of faith, culture, and innovation.

“We’ve had an explosion of AI tools that have been accessible to the public, and we’ve seen a reaction to that, some fear of how these tools will interact and transform our industries. So, I want to look at this cultural and societal impact of AI,” Ingle said.

MAP mima will transform into a sanctuary where visitors engage with the concept of an AI deity. By merging the ancient with the futuristic, Ingle's work invites participants to contemplate the ethical and philosophical implications of AI's evolution.

MAP mima Curator and Operations Coordinator David Rastas said Roko challenged visitors to consider whether we might one day worship AI, and what that would mean for our understanding of faith, power and humanity.

“MAP mima has always pushed the boundaries of contemporary art, but this takes it to an entirely new level,” he said.

“With Roko, we’re not only exploring the intersections of technology and art, but also confronting the philosophical and ethical implications of AI in our society.”

“At MAP mima, we believe art can spark important conversations about where we’re headed as a society.”

The exhibition runs until 23 February. Go to arts.lakemac.com.au for more information.

About Joshua Ingle

Joshua Ingle is an audio-visual artist and live event specialist with a strong foundation in both technical and creative disciplines. He holds a Bachelor of Music with Honours, with a double major in Viola and Composition, from The University of Newcastle, and a Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services. Joshua’s work focuses on crafting interactive and immersive experiences.

Summer Commission

The Summer Commission, valued at $10,000 is awarded annually to an immersive projection artwork that engages with the MAP mima Cube and creates unique experiences for audiences. It supports artists’ creativity by extending their practice by gaining skills with projection, light and sound installation. 

The Summer Commission is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW and Lake Macquarie City Council.

Exhibition:

Friday 6 December 2024 – Sunday 23 February 2025

Opening Night:

5-7pm Friday 6 December 

The Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima is located in Speers Point, Lake Macquarie NSW.

For more details visit: Joshua Ingle: Roko - Lake Macquarie Arts