Decoding Bias

Theresa Reiwer

Artwork Description:
Eight artificial intelligences (AIs) invite you to visit their self-held group therapy. They aim to eliminate discriminatory algorithms and rewrite toxic programs. However, each AI has a different background, and they do not always agree. They can comprehend various moral concepts but are often painfully thrown back to their human-made, flawed datasets. In this particular session, that seems like one of many episodes, the gender bias of an AI takes center stage.

At its core, DECODING BIAS’ speculative future sheds light on prejudices that code mainstream society. To point out that technology is not value-neutral, but reflects its creators and society, the AIs are visualized as hyper-realistic, anthropomorphic avatars with profoundly human features. In reception of the work, the odd feeling of sympathy frequently outweighs the so-called 'Uncanny Valley' effect. The actual piece is presented as a 44-minute loopable, 8-channel video and sound installation complemented by ambient lighting. The screens are arranged in a circle, resembling a fragmented sphere, creating an immersive 360° film experience. Guests are invited to take a seat on chairs identical to those seen in the video, blurring the lines between the virtual and physical realms and making them part of the group of AIs. The 8-channel sound reflects the position of each speaker and, while referencing audio-spatial experiences of the haptical world, helps the visitor to guide their gaze. As the room lighting changes according to the video, the virtual is once more extended into the physical space.