Dystopia Land explores ways to survive in a society beset by problems and to create a vision of the future.
Based on multifaceted research, the project focuses on the paradoxical positivity inherent in the act of predicting and envisaging the dystopia that awaits, and aspires to build resilience to the uncertainty we face.
The installation embodies the chronological passage of time, starting at the back of the space in ancient history and proceeding to the future. Along the way, the visitor experiences a bizarre and fantastical world: an ancient religion that worships a goat born with one eye due to a genetic abnormality; a robot that dances and sings fictional folk songs; propaganda footage made by a failing government using generative AI; and creepy hybrid creatures.
Through this vision of a dystopic Japan in a parallel universe, the installation presents not just human folly, but the tenacity by which we have overcome disasters and difficulties in the past.
Micro-Rituals for “Dystopia Land”
Etsuko Ichihara (JP), Civic Creative Base Tokyo [CCBT] (JP)
In the exhibition space, Etsuko Ichihara will lead intimate, ritual-inspired interactions with visitors, exploring dystopian scenarios and world-building within the context of an alternative Japan.
- Etsuko IchiharaEtsuko Ichihara has been creating artworks that interpret Japanese culture, customs, and beliefs from a unique point of view, and present new, technology-based approaches. Her works were included in the Excellence Award at the 20ᵗʰ Japan Media Arts Festival, Entertainment Division. She won the Honorary Mention in the category Interactive Art＋of the Prix Ars Electronica in 2018.
- CCBT]Civic Creative Base Tokyo [CCBT] is a hub where the public can explore their creative imaginations in society by using digital technology. Equipped with creative spaces and studios, CCBT organizes a wide-ranging program of events and projects to serve as a driving force for making Tokyo better through creativity and technology.