Events — Ephemerals

Peeking beyond the Ending

Zebrastraat, Ghent
01 > 31 March 2024

Ephemerals acted as curatorial advisor for the exhibition (text, art curation, poster development, scenography).

“If, however, one [...] redefines technology and science as primarily cultural carrier bag rather than weapon of domination, one pleasant side effect is that science fiction can be seen as a far less rigid, narrow field, not necessarily Promethean or apocalyptic at all, and in fact less a mythological genre than a realistic one.”

- Ursula K. Le Guin in ‘The Carrier Bag Theory of Fiction’

How will technology impact future generations? For some people technology will have devastating consequences, while others regard it as the solution to all global issues.

Rather than viewing technology as Promethean or apocalyptic, ‘Peeking beyond the Ending’ invites us to look at technology from Ursula K. Le Guin’s perspective that supports a more nuanced approach to technology. It addresses technology’s unmatched and dehumanizing effects as well as its potential for development.

The renowned American (science fiction) author encouraged the readers of her seminal writings to reflect on the ways that technology shapes our world and influences individuals, societies and nature.

Ranging from AI chatbots engaging in intertemporal communication to e-waste or transferring data into plants, the exhibition invites the visitors to question their own stance and views on technology and therefor to peek beyond the ending.

Featured artists:
Joachim Coucke (BE)
Jerry Galle (BE)
Kyriaki Goni (GR)
Sahej Rahal (IN)
Sabrina Ratté (CA).

Sabrina Ratté ‘Inflorescences’ (2023)

Joachim Coucke ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ + ‘LIBRA’

Jerry Galle ‘AI Messages’

Kyriaki Goni ‘A Way of Resisting (Athens Data Garden)’

Kyriaki Goni ‘A Way of Resisting (Athens Data Garden)’ - app

Sahej Rahal - 3D print