The event brought together Sylvie Boisseau and Frank Westermeyer, associate professors, and David Zerbib, lecturer in Philosophy of Art at HEAD – Genève (University of Art and Design, Geneva), to share their insights on the intersection of philosophy, art, and technology. Professor Takanori Oishi from the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies added an invaluable ethnographic perspective, enriching the conversation with his unique lens on the presented works.
The two video artworks captivated attendees, challenging perceptions of the human experience by juxtaposing AI, animals, and plant life. As the artworks unfolded, they sparked questions about the boundaries between humans and other living beings—or even non-living entities. What does it mean to exist in a world increasingly influenced by technology? Where do we draw the line between human agency and artificial intelligence?
For many in attendance, the event underscored the essential role of art and philosophy in framing such complex discussions. As one participant noted:
It was an opportunity to reflect on how art and philosophical thinking are crucial when discussing technology. The works prompted me to reconsider our place in a broader ecosystem of life and machines.
The panel discussion following the screenings provided a rich exchange of ideas. Boisseau and Westermeyer offered insights into the artistic processes behind the works, while Zerbib connected the themes to broader philosophical debates. Professor Oishi’s contribution deepened the dialogue by linking the themes to ethnographic understandings of human and non-human relationships.
This event highlighted the potential of art as a medium for exploring the complexities of modern life and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. By combining artistic expression with philosophical inquiry and ethnographic perspectives, it created a space for rethinking humanity’s evolving relationship with the world around it.