TechSpace: Second Nature

Technology often exists in opposition to nature, but it has also been used by scientists, artists, and designers to further understanding of the environment. Second Nature brings together technology-based art from Telfair’s permanent collection and new audiovisual works that reference nature. Included is an augmented reality installation by Max Almy and Teri Yarbrow that visually unlocks the hidden energy of trees. Virtual reality footage of Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary brings viewers into contact with an underwater wilderness off the Georgia coast. Other works include artist Katja Loher’s video sculpture that reflects the decline of pollinators. Videogame makers Earthgames and the Hydrous, a VR/education initiative, use technology to educate their audiences about the effects of climate change. Ian Bogost’s videogame ensemble A Slow Year imitates the four seasons. In Daniel Rozin’s Sunset Mirror, a digital reflection of your image causes the sun to set as you walk toward it. Together these artists and filmmakers speak to our increasingly fraught relationship with the natural world.