Sydney Skybetter, the director of the Brown Arts Institute, is gearing up to host the 10th edition of the Conference for Research on Choreographic Interfaces, a groundbreaking event he initiated a decade ago. This conference brings together a diverse array of artists, engineers, theorists, and even astronauts to delve into the fusion of art, movement, and technology. Through engaging conversations, presentations, and demonstrations, the conference explores the intricate interactions between bodies, computers, and robots, envisioning the future where artists play a pivotal role in shaping the realm of robotics, drones, and artificial intelligence.
Skybetter’s journey into the realm of technology and dance began against the backdrop of significant societal shifts post-9/11 and the Great Recession, which spurred a revolution in the dance world. Adapting to the changing landscape, he delved into technologies like telepresence, social media, and eventually AI and robotics, recognizing the imperative for artists to embrace these tools to redefine contemporary dance. This shift was not merely a trend but a necessity for the survival and evolution of the art form, empowering artists to influence the trajectory of technological advancements in dance.
The inception of the Conference for Research on Choreographic Interfaces in 2015 marked a crucial milestone in creating a platform that centered on the convergence of bodies, movement, and emerging technologies. This forum provided a unique space for interdisciplinary dialogue, challenging the conventional narratives in technology-driven industries like Silicon Valley that often overlook the human element. Over the years, the conference has evolved into a global event, fostering a community of diverse experts who collaborate to ensure that the future of art and technology remains deeply rooted in embodied knowledge and creative autonomy.
The conference attracts a wide range of scholars, from dancers and choreographers to critical theorists and engineers, reflecting the commitment to integrating embodied knowledge across various computational disciplines. By bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological innovation, these scholars explore new frontiers in human-computer interactions and robotics, emphasizing the pivotal role of the body in shaping the future of technology-driven interfaces.
As Skybetter prepares for the 10th annual conference, themed Moondance, he envisions a platform where performance transcends earthly boundaries, delving into the realms of microgravity and space culture. Discussions at the conference will delve into the nuances of performance in unconventional settings, prompting attendees to envision new possibilities in choreography and human-robot interactions. The conference serves as a dynamic incubator for novel ideas, collaborations, and performances that push the boundaries of artistic expression and technological innovation.
Looking ahead, Skybetter envisions the Brown Arts Institute as a hub for fostering audacious and interdisciplinary art that defies conventional boundaries. The institute aims to support artists, faculty, and students in exploring unconventional intersections of disciplines, nurturing a culture of innovation and creative freedom. By championing projects that blend diverse fields like disability studies, astrophysics, and photography, the institute strives to cultivate a community of visionary artists who challenge the status quo and pioneer groundbreaking collaborations.
Reflecting on his journey at Brown, Skybetter acknowledges the university’s unique Open Curriculum, which encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration. The structural integration of arts into the academic fabric of the university has enabled innovative initiatives like the Conference for Research on Choreographic Interfaces to thrive, fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration across disciplines. Brown’s ethos of embracing diversity, intellectual curiosity, and collaborative spirit has cemented Skybetter’s commitment to the university, underscoring the transformative power of interdisciplinary engagement in shaping the future of art and technology.
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