The future at the intersection of science, art, and technology

An exhibition titled "Coral Colors" by the internationally acclaimed artist Sputniko! will be hosted at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) from November 29, 2024, to January 9, 2025.

The exhibition showcases generative art pieces created using computer algorithms and over a century of scientific data documenting changes in coral ecosystems around Okinawa. These works, where science and art intersect, invite viewers to reflect on the impacts of global warming on marine ecosystems and the challenges they pose.

A crisis of coral bleaching

Coral reefs are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also serve as crucial habitats for diverse marine life. However, in recent years, coral reefs have faced an unprecedented crisis due to global warming, leading to widespread coral bleaching. When water temperatures rise too much, corals become stressed and expel the algae (zooxanthellae) that live symbiotically within them. These algae are vital for coral survival, providing them with nutrients through photosynthesis. Without them, corals turn white and, in severecases, die. In the summer of 2024, sea surface temperatures around Okinawa reached record highs, exceeding the past 15-year seasonal average by as much as 1.6°C. This extreme weather event caused mass coral bleaching, a phenomenon that continues to impact coral reefs not only in Okinawa but across the world.

Shawn Miller/OIST

New value at the intersection of art and science

In February 2024, Sputniko! was invited as OIST’s first Visiting Artist, marking the launch of a pilot project exploring the intersection of art and science. During her time at OIST, she engaged with OIST scientists and researchers to create art inspired by the institute’s scientific research. This project emphasizes learning and will be assessed to evaluate its impact and potential for continuation.

Through collaboration with Prof. Timothy Ravasi of OIST's Marine Climate Change Unit, who provided scientific advice and data, Sputniko! created "Coral Colors" to raise awareness of coral bleaching and related environmental concerns.

Additionally, this pilot program represents an important step in exploring new ways to integrate art and science, while also experimenting with innovative funding models. The artworks created for this exhibition will be sold as on-chain art, allowing buyers to purchase them as digital assets. Buyers will own the digital rights to the artwork, and a portion of the proceeds will support scientific research at OIST.

On December 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM, Sputniko! will give a panel talk at OIST (reservations required – register here). In addition to introducing her exhibition, the lecture will feature a discussion with Prof. Timothy Ravasi and Seiichi Tsuchiya, Associate Professor of Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts. Together, they will explore the dynamic intersection of science, art, and technology, discussing the potential for collaboration across these fields.

The result of the present collaboration between Sputniko! and OIST, "Coral Colors," invites visitors to consider the crisis facing coral reefs and offers a valuable opportunity to take steps toward a sustainable future. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience an event that blends art, science, and respect for nature.

Exhibition: "Coral Colors"

• Exhibition Period: November 29, 2024 – January 9, 2025 (closed from December 29 to January 3)
• Venue: OIST Tunnel Gallery (1919-1 Tancha, Onna Village)
• Free Admission
• Website

Public Lecture: "Digital Canvas: The Nexus of Science, Art, and Technology"

• Date & Time: December 7, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Venue: OIST Auditorium (1919-1 Tancha, Onna Village)
• Free Admission, Reservation Required (Register here)

About Sputniko!

Sputniko! is a British/Japanese artist and speculative designer based in Tokyo. She creates film and multimedia installation works that explore the social and ethical implications of emerging technologies, especially in the themes of gender and feminism. She has recently exhibited her works in exhibitions such as the New Eden: Science Fiction Mythologies Transformed at ArtScience Museum (2023; Singapore), DXP (Digital Transformation Planet): Towards the Next Interface at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa (2023; Kanazawa, Japan), and Myth Makers—Spectro synthesis III at Tai Kwun Contemporary Museum (2023; Hong Kong). Sputniko! is currently an Associate Professor of Design at the Tokyo University of Arts. From 2013 to 2017, she was an Assistant Professor at the MIT Media Lab, where she founded and directed the Design Fiction group. To date, Sputniko! has had her pieces included in the permanent collections of museums such as the Victoria & Albert Museum (London, UK), the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Website: https://sputniko.com/