Ali Phi
Ali Phi (b 1987) is a new media artist and creative technologist currently based in Toronto. His works are at the intersection of art, science, and technology, Through installations, autonomous machines, and performances, he explores the underlying mechanisms of new media, technology, interactions and data.
In his practice, architecture and space play a vital role both metaphorically and physically. He sought the interaction between the physical perception of the human body and its mind experiments of space to provoke new imaginaries in both artificial and the real worlds; By utilizing computer programming and generative algorithms, he produces interactive and generative media that involve the relationship between geometry, pattern, light, and poetry.
He has performed live in both new media and technology realms; he is known for his live performances, which embed generative and time-based material with sound and computational dialogues to create collective memory experiences through data visualization and has been awarded multiple prizes and grants for his artistic work, including the Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council, and Photon Foundation Poland.
He also wore multiple hats as a jury, mentor, and lecturer and held numerous workshops in participation with Toronto Art Council, York University Toronto, and Virginia Commonwealth University of the Arts Qatar and has performed and exhibited in Ars Electronica (Austria), Mutek (Montreal), the Ontario Science Centre (Canada), Virginia Commonwealth University of the Arts (Qatar), The Tehran Architecture Biennial (Iran), Patchlab Digital Art Festival (Poland), ASIA NOW: Paris Asian Art Fair (France) and Art Brussels (Belgium).
Interview With Ali Phi
1. Hi Ali, tell us about your background. How and when did you first start to create?
I started my journey by immersing myself in mathematics during high school and later into engineering at the university level. However, my creative journey began during my teenage years when I received a handheld camcorder as a birthday gift. I found myself captivated by the process of recording and experimenting with the fusion of sound and visuals for my personal archive. This initial exploration paved the way for a deeper dive into the realm of technology, particularly in the domain of computer programming. I started web coding, channeling my efforts into seamlessly integrating various elements of my knowledge, including sound and video. This led to the development of real-time processing systems, where I created installations and performances that utilized my custom code patches and archived footage. By harmonizing these elements, I established a dynamic datastream, employing them as foundational materials to craft works. This fusion of disciplines has been central to my creative journey, allowing me to forge connections between disparate elements to form a cohesive and meaningful body of work.
2. What is your process like? How do you begin to work?
My creative process is deeply rooted in the intersection of societal challenges, the natural world, and the intricate workings of machines. Early on, I drew inspiration from observing the struggles, failures, and intriguing errors inherent in both digital and physical realms. Glitches and anomalies became a source of fascination, as they revealed hidden aspects of our digital landscape.
In recent years, my focus has shifted towards absorbing knowledge from articles, data streams, and the digital sphere that interconnects our society. This has led me to delve into extensive studies of data ecosystems and ecological arts, exploring the profound impact they have on our daily lives, bridging the gap between our digital presence and tangible reality.
My creative journey typically commences with a fundamental idea, often born from a personal challenge or the process of developing complex systems and machinery. From there, I expand upon this initial concept, delving into various aspects including audio, visual elements, and the technical hurdles associated with it. I integrate visual effects, seeking to enhance the overall experience of installations or performances. Concurrently, I compose soundscapes, drawing from data sources to translate them into auditory and visual elements. The ultimate goal is to achieve a harmonious synchronicity, where every element seamlessly complements one another, resulting in a cohesive and impactful work of art.
3. Your work is described as being at the intersection of art, science, and technology. Could you explain how you navigate these interdisciplinary boundaries and what drives you to explore this convergence?
My academic background in engineering, particularly my studies in science, mathematics, and physics, has significantly influenced my artistic perspective. It's given me the ability to measure, calculate, and conceptualize, allowing me to seamlessly blend creativity with analytical thinking. Additionally, being a child of the 80s, I grew up amidst the rapid advancement of technologies, particularly in gaming and consoles. Living in an environment that championed the exploration of technological frontiers further heightened my fascination with science, technology, and their potential impact on our daily lives.
This convergence of interests, rooted in both science and technology, has been a driving force in my creative journey. I view them not merely as separate disciplines, but rather as materials that can be woven together to craft art. For me, the beauty lies in the connection of machinery, code, and scientific principles. This endeavor to synthesize these elements forms the basis of my artistic practice, as I strive to forge meaningful connections between them and transform them into evocative works of art.
4. Architecture and space are highlighted as crucial elements in your practice. How do you conceptualize and utilize architecture metaphorically and physically to provoke new imaginaries in both the artificial and real worlds?
The concept of space, particularly in architecture, has always been a profound wellspring of inspiration for me. Having been born and raised in Iran, I was deeply influenced by the majestic Persian architecture and the artistry that weaves through public spaces. The intricate geometrical formations of these buildings left an indelible mark on my artistic sensibilities. Over the years, as I explored urban spaces in my travels, I found myself captivated by colossal sculptures that invited people to step inside and experience a range of scales.
As a digital artist, I am fascinated by the interplay of imagination, spatial perception, lighting, and the integration of natural elements within a confined space. This curiosity led me to embark on a creative journey where I sought to recreate and immerse myself in entirely new digital environments. I was driven by a desire to understand what it truly feels like to inhabit these digital sculptures. More recently, I've taken this exploration a step further by translating these virtual spaces into tangible, physical forms.
Through the use of 3D printers, I am now able to bring these digital creations to life, forging three-dimensional sculptures from the rooms and spaces I've constructed virtually. This process involves utilizing patches and harnessing the power of AI to generate the intricate details that breathe life into these works. This transition from the digital realm to the physical world marks an exciting evolution in my artistic practice, allowing me to interact with my creations in a whole new dimension.
5. Your use of computer programming and generative algorithms is integral to your artistic process. How do you see these tools enhancing the relationship between geometry, pattern, light, and poetry in your interactive and generative media?
The forms I generate in the digital realm serve as the foundation of my creative process, with real-time processing techniques being vital material in my practice. My concepts are born from my life experiences and are often sparked by engaging with new and challenging topics that I encounter. The coding and technical aspects serve as tools that facilitate the connection between these ideas and the final artistic output.
Light, sound, and space are the fundamental elements I envision and aim to recreate, whether in the digital or physical realm. This is especially evident in my interactive installations, which are spatial experiences designed to blend different elements seamlessly. My goal is to transport the audience into a space where they can momentarily let go of their surroundings and fully immerse themselves in the work.
One distinct aspect of my approach lies in the materials I employ. Unlike some other art forms where the material itself can inspire creativity, my focus tends to lean towards utilizing technology as a means to convey the intended message or evoke specific artistic sentiments. The tools I select, occasional glitches, and technological advancements all play a role in shaping how the work is presented and how the audience is invited to engage with it. This dynamic interaction between technology and artistic expression is a pivotal aspect of my creative process.
6. Describe a real-life situation that inspired you.
Around 15 years ago, I found myself in a situation where access to the internet, computers, and even music was completely cut off. It was an unexpected and challenging circumstance, one that I now view as a profoundly inspirational moment in my life. For approximately three weeks, I was immersed in a world devoid of the usual auditory and digital stimuli.
During this period, I recall my first encounter with music occurring outdoors in an open space. The volume was surprisingly high, and the experience wasn't orchestrated for entertainment or a festival; rather, it was a completely serendipitous event. This unique occurrence allowed me to hear music in an entirely new light for those three weeks, leaving a lasting imprint on my creative sensibilities.
This experience has since become a touchstone in my artistic practice. I intentionally seek out "negative spaces," moments of deliberate disconnection from materials and creation. This intentional hiatus allows me to step back, gaining fresh perspective, and ultimately enriching my creative process. By periodically distancing myself from the familiar, I open the door to new insights and discoveries, exploring the creative potential that arises when access to familiar resources is limited.
7. Your artistic journey includes performances and exhibitions in various international settings. How does cultural context influence the way your work is received, and how do you adapt your concepts to resonate with diverse audiences?
Throughout my artistic journey, I've remained steadfast in my commitment to the elements and motifs drawn from both Persian culture and the region in which I was raised. However, I recognized early on that simply reproducing these influences wouldn't do justice to the depth of my experiences and the unique way in which I perceive and document this cultural wealth.
From the outset, I've strived to seamlessly integrate Western technologies with Middle Eastern motives and aesthetics in the presentation of my work. This fusion allows for a more universal appeal, ensuring that my creations resonate with a diverse audience spanning various cultures. By incorporating elements that may have left an indelible mark on visual memories for many, I aim to tap into a collective consciousness, evoking familiar sensations or emotions.
When sharing my work, I prioritize the live experience, whether it be through A/V performances or installations. This real-time interaction invites viewers to immerse themselves in the moment, forging their own connections with the sensory stimuli before them. The synchronicity between music, videos, and visuals may not always be flawless, but this intentional imperfection serves as an opportunity for each audience member to find their own rhythm within the experience. In this way, they are encouraged to engage with the work in a manner that feels most natural to them, allowing for a deeply personal and immersive encounter with the data being presented.
8. How has the city you are living and working in influenced you and the art you make?
The city I reside in, Toronto, may not have a pronounced impact on my artistic practice and creative process. From the outset, I've always found solace and inspiration within the confines of my studio, dedicating substantial time to live and work in this space. My interactions with the city and its society have been limited, with infrequent ventures beyond the studio walls.
Toronto, in particular, offers a serene and peaceful environment for living, which naturally lends itself to a more insular creative process. My outings are primarily reserved for observing new architecture, engaging with fellow artisans, and attending select art shows and exhibitions featuring genuine artists. While I do wish for more diverse presentation opportunities within the city, the bulk of my time is spent in introspection and creation within the confines of my studio.
Ultimately, I find that the city's atmosphere and rhythm, though pleasant, do not exert a particularly profound influence on my artistic endeavours or the manner in which I create.
9. The merging of art and technology has seen rapid evolution in recent years. How do you envision the future of new media art, and what directions do you personally hope to explore in your own creative journey?
I've always been an avid follower of emerging technology trends, eagerly seeking out new technologies and exploring ways to push their boundaries. My approach has often involved a bit of "hacking" and unconventional use, aiming to uncover how these cutting-edge tools can be repurposed and leveraged for creative expression. More recently, my focus has shifted towards delving into the realms of AI and robotics, aiming to inject an element of randomness and unpredictability into my practice. This exploration delves into the fascinating world of how systems and machines can encounter glitches and how creativity can emerge from these unexpected occurrences.
In my view, the evolution of technology is a continuous and dynamic process, and I anticipate being engaged with it for as long as I'm able. I find immense satisfaction in learning about systems, embracing new experiences, and constantly adapting to the ever-changing landscape of technological innovation. As a new media artist, one of the most exhilarating aspects is the constant influx of new devices and technologies, each presenting fresh opportunities for creative exploration.
I’ve always approached technology as a malleable material for my artistic endeavors. While I may not necessarily harbor a deep personal attachment to the technology itself, I do appreciate its potential as a tool for creative expression. It's important to note that discussions around the ethical implications of technology are crucial, but they often lead to a separate conversation. For me, the sheer joy lies in working with these cutting-edge tools, stemming from a history rooted in hacking the devices I had on hand. This foundational approach has evolved over time, guided by my evolving tastes, aesthetics, and conceptual interests. The core of my practice revolves around forging meaningful connections between the available devices and the experiences I aim to create in my works.
