Enchanted and disenchanted perspectives on a paradigm shift.
In this second issue of Ultra, we dive deep into the intriguing concept of the "threshold": a symbolic boundary, sometimes all too literal, undeniably transformative.
Innovations in the fields of Immersive Technologies and Spatial Computing increasingly blur the lines between the physical and virtual worlds. This new paradigm presents us with a reality where the tangible and the augmented merge in an almost indistinguishable manner; we are constantly called upon to redefine our perceptions, our identity, and the very essence of reality itself. We anticipate here two reflections, or rather open-ended questions, related to the chosen theme.
First, the threshold has always been perceived as a moment of transition, a fleeting yet significant experience. This leads us to a pivotal observation: what if the future of human existence is no longer beyond the threshold, but rather within it? Where "the threshold" embodies that element which seamlessly integrates with our senses, becoming an intrinsic part of our perception and extending our cognitive abilities well beyond natural boundaries. Scientific and science fiction literature have, for years, provided glimpses of this reality, presenting it as a distant possibility. It was a futuristic view, on par with the promises of artificial intelligence. Now, we face the swift realization of these prospects. As we approach such a near and tangible future, how do we respond?
Moreover, at this threshold, if seen as a potential promise for self-extension, should we imagine we naturally possess the keys, or will we need to provide the passcode?
The authors, hailing from diverse worlds such as art, journalism, design, technology, and philosophy, venture into these topics with care and depth, highlighting not only the wonders and dissonances and tensions that arise during moments of radical change. From emotional geographies to technological mishaps, from the obsessive pursuit of representation to the challenging intersection of reality and virtuality, these writings prompt us to reflect on the intricate dynamics of teetering on the brink of a new world. Enjoy!
Contributors: Stex Auer, Giacomo Bon, Michele Brunello, Giacomo Mercuriali, Sara Tirelli
Publication date: October 2023
Language: English - Italian
Pages: 16
Dimensions: 29,7×42 cm
Enchanted and disenchanted perspectives on a paradigm shift.
In this second issue of Ultra, we dive deep into the intriguing concept of the "threshold": a symbolic boundary, sometimes all too literal, undeniably transformative.
Innovations in the fields of Immersive Technologies and Spatial Computing increasingly blur the lines between the physical and virtual worlds. This new paradigm presents us with a reality where the tangible and the augmented merge in an almost indistinguishable manner; we are constantly called upon to redefine our perceptions, our identity, and the very essence of reality itself. We anticipate here two reflections, or rather open-ended questions, related to the chosen theme.
First, the threshold has always been perceived as a moment of transition, a fleeting yet significant experience. This leads us to a pivotal observation: what if the future of human existence is no longer beyond the threshold, but rather within it? Where "the threshold" embodies that element which seamlessly integrates with our senses, becoming an intrinsic part of our perception and extending our cognitive abilities well beyond natural boundaries. Scientific and science fiction literature have, for years, provided glimpses of this reality, presenting it as a distant possibility. It was a futuristic view, on par with the promises of artificial intelligence. Now, we face the swift realization of these prospects. As we approach such a near and tangible future, how do we respond?
Moreover, at this threshold, if seen as a potential promise for self-extension, should we imagine we naturally possess the keys, or will we need to provide the passcode?
The authors, hailing from diverse worlds such as art, journalism, design, technology, and philosophy, venture into these topics with care and depth, highlighting not only the wonders and dissonances and tensions that arise during moments of radical change. From emotional geographies to technological mishaps, from the obsessive pursuit of representation to the challenging intersection of reality and virtuality, these writings prompt us to reflect on the intricate dynamics of teetering on the brink of a new world. Enjoy!
Contributors: Stex Auer, Giacomo Bon, Michele Brunello, Giacomo Mercuriali, Sara Tirelli
Publication date: October 2023
Language: English - Italian
Pages: 16
Dimensions: 29,7×42 cm
