grotesk.group
grotesk.group is a creative collective that has been trying to redefine the boundaries of aesthetic perception. since its founding in düsseldorf just one year ago they're focusing in rather weird, digitally generated media. grotesk.group doesn't only use a multitude of nerdy cutting-edge techniques in the field of ai, coding and visual programming, they're also abusing various creative softwares to achieve a unique style that treats you like a cat treats his human. the 4 faces behind the alias all come from professional backgrounds in photography, film production, and motion design studios, leaving these behind to follow their shared passion to explore their own visual storytelling territories. within the past 12 months they caught the attention of clients such as Mercedes AMG, Nike, Iris van Herpen, Moderat, RIN, Adidas, and many others. additionally, their art installations have seen venues like NRW Forum, Fusion Festival, and Architectural Digest Berlin, captivating audiences with their bold and strange designs.
'The Divine Algorithm'
Welcome to 'The Divine Algorithm' solo exhibition by grotesk.group, a captivating exploration of digitally generated media that pushes the boundaries of aesthetic perception. Immerse yourself in a thought-provoking journey through modern society's vices, where visionary art challenges conventional perspectives on sin in the digital age. Each of the 7 exclusive NFT artworks, meticulously crafted with a blend of analog and digital techniques, serves as a profound reflection on the intricate relationship between data, technology, and society. Experience the fusion of sacred symbolism and cutting-edge technology, unraveling a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
In "Greed," grotesk.group exposes the insatiable thirst for data
in our digital age. This artwork combines found footage, ranging from private
videos to webcam captures and content from online ressources, to illustrate
the avaricious approach of companies and individuals towards data
collection. Using tools and techniques based on datasets like YOLO and OpenCV,
grotesk.group weaves an arresting visual narrative that challenges viewers
to confront the ethics of data commodification and its impact on privacy and
individual agency. "Greed" serves as a poignant reflection on the consequences of unbridled
data consumption, urging viewers to consider their own roles in perpetuating
this digital gluttony. It encourages dialogue on responsible and ethical data
usage in an increasingly data-driven world.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 2:55 min
"Envy" is a modern visualization of the pervasive digital envy
that engulfs our interconnected society. In this piece, grotesk.group delves
into the constant state of comparison we find ourselves in as we witness the
seemingly more successful, more beautiful, and more famous lives of others
on our screens.
Using deepfake technology based on open-source 2D&3D deep face
analysis toolboxes like insightface, grotesk.group crafts an evocative
portrayal of the envy-driven world we inhabit. The artwork serves as a mirror
to our obsession with virtual comparisons, where we often find ourselves
alone, measuring our worth against strangers we only glimpse through a
screen.
"Envy" confronts viewers with the harsh reality of the envy that permeates
our digital existence. It challenges us to question the authenticity of our
emotions as we fall victim to meticulously crafted online personas. The piece
sparks contemplation on the toll that constant comparison can take on our
mental well-being and self-worth.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 0:27 min
"Pride" offers the grotesk.group's take on our consumer-driven
obsession with social media, celebrity culture, and the tendency to judge
others while elevating ourselves. In this piece, we are presented with videos
sourced from car dash cams with synthesized voices, featuring a constant
monologue by one of the Kardashian sisters.
As viewers immerse themselves in this provoking experience, they witness
the surroundings passing by through the car's window. Simultaneously, the
voice of a Kardashian sister provides a ceaseless commentary, not only on
the external world but also on superficial topics and distractions. Through
this vivid interplay, the undertone of pride becomes palpable, as she
consistently separates herself from the external setting, positioning herself
as an observer from a pedestal of self-importance.
"Pride" holds a mirror to our inherent tendencies to compare and judge,
while also exploring our fascination with celebrity lives. The artwork prompts
us to question the authenticity of our self-perceptions and the impact of
constant comparison on our relationships and perspectives.
By employing datasets to synthesize voices, grotesk.group captures the
challenges of modern media consumption. This fusion of technology and art
provokes introspection on the fine line between admiration and self-
aggrandizement in our interconnected world.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 2:32 min
"Sloth" presents a visualization of the classic sin in its digital
form, encompassing the mental, spiritual, and physical states. The artwork
draws viewers close to a tired and weary eyeball, where the constant
movement of the eyelids mirrors the struggle to stay awake. This poignant
portrayal captures the essence of exhaustion in the face of unyielding digital
consumption.
As the eye communicates weariness, the reflection within reveals a stark
contrast. A continuous stream of online content scrolls by, symbolizing the
endless cycle of browsing and mindless consumption. The browser tabs flicker, switching from one platform to another – Instagram, YouTube, and
other meaningless content forming a blend of random content – each
devoured one after the other.
"Sloth" embodies the contemporary manifestation of this age-old sin, as the
allure of endless distractions and instant gratification takes its toll on the
modern soul. The artwork serves as a haunting reminder of the mental and
spiritual lethargy that pervades our digitally interconnected lives.
Through this portrayal, grotesk.group urges viewers to confront the
consequences of prolonged digital idleness and reflect on the profound
implications of such behaviors on our well-being and sense of purpose.
"Sloth" sparks a dialogue on the need for intentional engagement with
technology and a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 3:00 min
"Lust" offers an experimental approach to visualizing the sin of
lust through the technique of text2video. This cutting-edge model comprises
three sub-networks: text feature extraction, text feature-to-video latent space
diffusion, and video generation. The result is a mesmerizing display of
abstract images depicting humans intertwining, loving, hugging, and kissing
one another in a passionate embrace.
In this artwork, the figures appear almost inseparable, as they melt into each
other, exuding an aura of intense desire and yearning. The visual narrative
beautifully captures the overwhelming power of lust and its ability to blur the
boundaries between individuals, consuming them in a moment of unbridled
passion.
Through the use of text2video, grotesk.group pushes the boundaries of
artistic expression, offering viewers an immersive experience that delves into
the depths of human desire. The abstract nature of the images allows
viewers to explore the emotional and visceral aspects of lust without being
tied to specific identities or contexts.
"Lust" serves as a powerful reminder of the potent force that drives human
interactions and relationships. It challenges us to confront the allure of
instant gratification and the intensity of desire that can overwhelm rational
thought and lead to both profound connections and potential harm.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 2:13 min
This artwork offers a modern portrayal of the sin "wrath" as
grotesk.group explores the unsettling reality of online hatred and its impact
on our interconnected society. In "wrath" we witness the sinner unleashing
his fury through hateful comments on the internet.
The artwork captures the sinner's rage as he hits the keys on the keyboard,
directing his anger towards others in a digital realm that often feels detached
and anonymous. The visceral visuals, created using the text2video
technique, underscore the raw intensity of wrath and its potential
consequences.
In our current society, the ease of expressing hateful thoughts online can
lead to hurtful reactions, as people may not fully grasp the impact of their
words on others. The artwork serves as a chilling reminder of the
disconnection we often feel from the human beings behind the screens,
which can exacerbate the outpouring of anger and animosity.
Through this thought-provoking portrayal, grotesk.group urges viewers to
reflect on the power of their words and the potential harm they can cause
when unleashed in a virtual space. "Wrath" serves as a powerful call to
reevaluate the way we interact with others online and to cultivate empathy
and compassion, even in the face of disagreement or frustration.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Loop
Length: 1:04 min
"Gluttony" presents a compelling visualization of the insatiable
consumer culture and the never-ending hunger for material possessions. grotesk.group delves into the allure of fast fashion and the sin of over-
consumption in our modern world. In this artwork, we witness happy people carrying their shopping bags,
reveling in the joy of their new purchases. The visuals beautifully capture the
excitement and happiness that come with acquiring shiny, new products,
which momentarily overshadow any second thoughts or worries. The piece serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the allure of
consumerism and its impact on our society and the environment. The happy
and content expressions of the characters highlight the surface-level
satisfaction derived from material possessions, while also underlining the
blindness to the hidden cost and circumstances under which many products
are created.
Through "Gluttony," grotesk.group encourages viewers to confront the
consequences of over-consumption and the implications of supporting
industries with questionable practices. The artwork challenges us to reflect
on the true value and significance of the items we purchase, encouraging a
more mindful and sustainable approach to consumer choices.
Edition: 1
File format: mp4 Video Looop
Length: 2:00 min
Artist Interview Live @NEONREAL GALLERY 05.08.2023
VERNISSAGE IMPRESSIONS
