Nature Dreams: A Synesthetic Reality Experiment

Refik Anadol Studio's AI-Driven Digital Art Exhibition

Refik Anadol Studio's Nature Dreams is a groundbreaking digital art exhibition that uses machine intelligence to create a unique aesthetic approach to a vast photographic dataset of nature. The project, which began during Anadol's 2016 Google AI Residency, uses Deep Convolutional Generative Adversarial Networks (DCGAN), Progressive Growing of GANs (PGAN), and StyleGAN algorithms trained on these vast datasets to reveal unrecognized layers of our external realities.

The installation, which was the most visited art installation in Germany in 2021, features a giant LED screen displaying machine-generated, dynamic pigments. It is an architectural exhibition of synesthetic reality experiments based on GAN algorithms developed by AI. Nature Dreams turns this dataset into latent multisensory experiences to commemorate the beauty of the earth we share.

The project was realized using GAN AI algorithms and a LED Screen, with a size of 10M x 11.5M. The design team, led by Refik Anadol, included a diverse group of artists and technologists who contributed to the creation of this immersive art experience. The project was developed at Refik Anadol Studio and was exhibited in Berlin between November 6 and December 17, 2021.

The artwork is based on the idea of imagining nature as a visually attainable totality. Anadol and his team applied machine learning to millions of nature images, training a generative model to create a latent multi-sensory experience. The artwork unveils a significant aspect of the relationship among memories, nature, and digital art by incorporating pigments, shapes, and patterns that we associate with our various experiences with nature while paying homage to its unbound poetic sublimity.

The project faced several challenges, including the representation of nature in diverse ways using AI and the collection of 200 million nature photos over the last two years. Despite these challenges, the project was successful in creating a unique and immersive experience that draws attention to the beauty and importance of nature.

The Nature Dreams project was awarded Platinum in A' Generative, Algorithmic, Parametric and AI-Assisted Design Award in 2022, recognizing its world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative design that contributes to societal wellbeing. The award is a testament to the project's ability to advance the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology, exhibiting transcendent excellence and making the world a better place.