Ralf Baecker is an artist-researcher whose work emerges at the intersection of art, science, and technology. His installations and autonomous machines encourage reflection on complex technologies and their social impact. Baecker possesses extensive knowledge of and insight into technological processes, as well as a remarkable ability to shape them into artistic expression, so we are honoured to present his work in Zagreb for the third time.

Explaining his light and sound installation, Floating Codes, he cites McCulloch-Pitts perceptrons—the first mathematical models of artificial neurons—as inspiration. Artificial neurons mimic the function of biological neurons by receiving information and making binary activation decisions based on threshold values. McCulloch-Pitts perceptrons are simple models of what are now very complex artificial neural networks, used in technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Another source of inspiration for Floating Codes is cellular automata—mathematical models used to simulate complex natural systems, such as plant growth or the spread of disease within a given ecosystem but governed by simple rules. Within a network of cells that can either be activated or not, the situation changes over time based on the surrounding cells.

In contrast to McCulloch-Pitts perceptrons, which mimic neurons in living organisms' nervous systems, and cellular automata, which simulate networked activity within a certain ecosystem, the third creative influence for Floating Codes is not based on technology that mimics nature but on nature itself acting in a mathematically determined way. Specifically, it draws on the synchronized behaviour of fireflies during mating season. Photinus carolinus fireflies gather in the summer months in humid areas and use bioluminescence for reproduction. From dozens to hundreds of fireflies participate in creating a hexagonal network of light signals during the mating process. Males emit light in specific ways, while females respond by creating synchronized hexagons, which contribute not only to mating but also to the fireflies' protection from predators.

Inspired by these processes, the artist has created an open system that communicates internally, with the audience, and with its immediate surroundings through light and sound signals. The hexagons of fireflies' bioluminescent signals are also present in the spatial installation, which is based on both natural and artificially created communication systems.

Ralf Baecker’s installation in the space is intricate yet delicate, much like the phenomena it is based on. Using light and sound signals, the system continuously reacts to its surroundings and the audience. The responsiveness of the installation, composed of neurons reminiscent of McCulloch-Pitts perceptrons, enables dynamic information exchange within the network, creating the sense that this artificial system is actually a living organism. In its simple yet sophisticated design, the installation mirrors natural processes, creating a visual and auditory experience that invites contemplation and interaction, thus opening space for reflection on the subtle connections between life and technology.

Olga Majcen Linn