A fragment of a reimagined past, hinting at a future’s hidden pathways.
What if ancient patterns could hold the key to unlocking digital freedom?
Naseej al-Mustaqbal: Naseej al-Mustaqbal envisions a decentralized communication network woven into the fabric of Syrian architecture, resisting AI surveillance and reclaiming digital autonomy.
Al-Amin_12851, Syria
Al-Amin_12851, Syria
Description
Infrastructure often dictates power. 'Naseej al-Mustaqbal' models a speculative communication network designed to resist pervasive AI surveillance. It presents a decentralized, encrypted system interwoven with traditional Syrian architectural motifs, enabling covert information exchange. This speculative infrastructure challenges the dominance of AI-augmented governance, providing a potential pathway for preserving digital autonomy and fostering resilient communities, highlighting the ongoing tension between technological control and the human desire for freedom of expression and association. The artwork uses intricate geometrical patterns representing different data flows, protection pathways and network access points across the city.
Context
The world is a near-future Syria, scarred by conflict but rebuilding under a veneer of technological progress. The inhabitants, a blend of resilient locals and returning diaspora, navigate a society increasingly monitored by AI-augmented 'oracles'. The culture is a tense mix of traditional values and cautious digital engagement, many seeking anonymity online. Historically, trust in centralized authority is shattered, fostering a growing black market for decentralized technologies and a clandestine network of information sharing. A quiet battle rages between those seeking control and those fighting for digital freedom and the preservation of ancient knowledge.
Provocation
This project reflects the urgent need to critically examine technology's role in power dynamics. Viewers should consider how easily seemingly benevolent tools can be repurposed for control. Be wary of the trajectory of centralized AI governance. Question the trade-offs between security, convenience, and freedom in a hyper-connected world.
Al-Amin_12851's process
Inspired by social media dynamics and geometric patterns in Syrian art, Al-Amin, a Two-Spirit artist, brings a unique perspective. Their cultural heritage, blending traditional geometric forms with a non-binary worldview, deeply informs the work. "Naseej al-Mustaqbal" emerged from rigorous research into political science, network theory, and Syrian history. Al-Amin meticulously translated complex data flows from observed virtual networks into visual geometric models. These intricate patterns were then used to conceptualize a decentralized communication network, embedding its nodes within traditional architectural elements, illustrating a powerful fusion of cultural preservation and technological resistance.
More about Al-Amin_12851
Events leading to ‘Naseej al-Mustaqbal’
2024: Global increase in AI surveillance technologies sparks privacy debates.
2026: Syria begins pilot program using AI to optimize resource allocation.
2028: AI 'oracles' are implemented in government, promising unbiased decision-making.
2029: Concerns arise over the increasing control and lack of transparency of AI governance.
2030: First documented cases of AI-driven censorship and suppression of dissent in Syria.
2031: Underground networks begin developing decentralized communication tools.
Imagined Future Scenarios Considered
Al-Amin_12851 considered the following imagined future scenarios while working on this project
Hypothetical Product Ideas Considered
Al-Amin_12851 considered the following hypothetical product ideas while working on this project
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