Robots in Captivity

What does it mean to be human in an age of technology? Machines grow smarter through AI and data, able to predict and influence human behaviour. We humanise them: Siri speaks to us in a warm voice, care robots have friendly faces. But who is actually in control? Artist Bram Ellens explored that complex relationship during his residency and exhibition at Buitenplaats Doornburgh in the second half of 2021.

As part of a group of musicians, I took part in a writers camp on location, surrounded by the exhibition. Several tracks emerged as a soundtrack, composed in the space itself, among the robots.