The ghost is an inexplicable image or sound without an actual existence, nevertheless associated with a particular space. In the stereotypical ghost story, it is set for repeat transmission into the future; a forlorn loop acting as a catalyst for the living to uncover material clues to an unresolved relationship with the past. The focus of our lives is increasingly disassociated from the physical realm. Algorithms now predict human behaviour better than humans can. Such algorithms, acting as invisible forces from a distance, exert more influence than the places we inhabit. Are we ghosts yet? This exhibition presents a combination of both new and old video works that reflect upon the traces we leave behind.

Playing with an algorithm will haunt you. The realm of the ghost has on occasion been described as residing in peripheral vision, just like the specially selected ads from google that frame the screens we spend many hours looking at each day. A Facebook update claims “I get ads for funeral plans and life insurance. You think they know something I don’t?” You can click to the right, saying “Not interested.” and they won’t show again. Regrettable though it is to become closed to possibilities, for even in madness may wisdom lie. We all suffer from algorithmia.

Curator
Kieran Boland

Location
FIVE WALLS PROJECT, 119 Hopkins Street, Footscray 3011 VIC, AU

Duration
9 -26 Aug. 2017