Neo Botanica: An Atlas of Artificially Generated Flora

About

The Neo Botanica book serves as a contemporary florilegium, exploring the fascinating intersections of art, nature, and technology. It features the work of 32 innovative artists and collectives, including notable names like Refik Anadol, Andrés Reisinger, Anna Ridler, Ivona Tau, Monica Rizzolli, and Entangled Others. At Load Gallery, visitors will have the opportunity to experience works from 29 of these talented creators, marking one of the gallery's most ambitious and intellectually stimulating exhibitions to date.

This exhibition showcases how artists harness AI, CGI, 3D modeling, and programming to create imaginative botanical landscapes. These include representations of flowers that have become extinct, unique hybrids that have never been seen before, and plant forms shaped by algorithmic processes. The book not only stands as a remarkable publishing venture but also evolves into an interactive exhibition through the use of augmented reality.

Refik Anadol, who previously made waves in Barcelona as the first artist to project a mapping display onto Casa Batlló in 2022, will present his work titled The Large Nature Model (LNM) at Load Gallery. This groundbreaking piece is recognized as the first open-source generative AI model focused on nature. A particular segment of LNM, known as LNM: Flora, analyzes millions of floral images. It highlights the intelligent biological processes inherent in plant life, utilizing natural color palettes and AI-generated visuals to unveil hidden structures and patterns within nature. Through LNM: Flora, Anadol emphasizes the crucial importance of conservation for our planet's well-being.

The Lisbon-based artistic duo Entangled Others, consisting of Sofia Crespo from Argentina and Feileacan McCormick from Norway, will showcase a series inspired by the natural elements that adorn the Palau de la Música Catalana. These pieces were specifically created for the Palau's 2023-2024 artistic season and pay homage to architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner on the centenary of his death.

Throughout history, plants have symbolized beauty, delicacy, and renewal. In Neo Botanica, these themes evolve as we face the realities of a warming planet. The integration of botany and digital technology within this project invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between nature and innovation. The artworks prompt us to rethink our relationship with the environment and inspire discussions on how technology can serve as a tool for healing rather than harm.

“This exhibition both excites and intimidates me. Curating such an impressive group of 29 artists feels almost surreal; it’s akin to working on an institutional level rather than within a typical gallery framework – it’s a significant challenge. Nevertheless, I am eager to share this project with the public and see the interplay between digital and physical elements come alive,” says Alex Simorrè, founder of Load Gallery.

As a part of private opening, several leading floral designers from the Barcelona area, including Floral Atelier, Matagalan Plantae, and Fàtima Valldeperas, will create botanical arrangements inspired by the exhibited artworks, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.