Memo Akten

Memo Akten is a Turkish-British artist, researcher, and pioneer in computational and AI art whose practice investigates the intersection of technology, nature, perception, and consciousness. Working primarily with machine learning, generative systems, and immersive installations, Akten creates visually stunning works that explore how artificial intelligence interprets and transforms human experience. His practice is deeply informed by his background in computer science and his ongoing research into computational creativity, often questioning the boundaries between human and machine cognition while examining our relationship with the natural world through technological mediums. Akten's notable works include "Learning to See" (2017), a series that uses neural networks trained on specific datasets to reinterpret live video feeds, creating hallucinatory, dreamlike visions that reveal the 'dreams' of artificial intelligence. His "Deep Meditations" series employs generative adversarial networks to create abstract, evolving audiovisual works that blur the line between digital and organic forms. He has exhibited internationally at prestigious venues including the Barbican Centre in London, Victoria and Albert Museum, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Ars Electronica, and numerous international media arts festivals. His work has been recognized with awards including the Prix Ars Electronica Golden Nica. Beyond his artistic practice, Akten is an influential researcher and educator who has contributed significantly to the discourse around AI and creativity. He holds a PhD from Goldsmiths, University of London, where his research focuses on computational models of perception and creativity. His work sits at the forefront of the AI art movement, predating much of the recent explosion in machine learning art, and he has been instrumental in developing both the technical frameworks and critical discourse surrounding how artists engage with artificial intelligence as a creative medium. His practice emphasizes ethical considerations and thoughtful engagement with technology rather than uncritical technological determinism.