"Petri.Vista" is a digital simulation inspired by infection models in which autonomous agents evolve from single pixels into complex forms. These agents interact, adapt and simulate behaviours such as reproduction, disease and migration. "Petri.Vista" explores patterns in digital life and encourages the audience to reflect on reality as a complex, interconnected system.

(project summary)

(project details)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired by the infection simulation model, Chan created a complex system called "Petri.Vista" designed to simulate phenomena through autonomous agents. These autonomous agents interact with each other, and various events and memories activate digital life. In this digital petri dish, an aerial landscape is presented.

Initially, the agents consist of a single pixel, and as the data characteristics change, they gradually evolve into unique shapes. These agents rely on exploring and learning about their environment, creating architecture, reproducing, contracting diseases, or migrating to new homes. Over time, the audience may gradually perceive the patterns and meanings behind the behaviours, perhaps realising that reality is nothing more than another complex system.

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Exhibition Record

HKFORWORD22, 10 Chancery Lane Gallery, Hong Kong (Y:2022)

Auto.Mob, The Gallery of Hong Kong Art School, Hong Kong Arts Centre (Y:2021)

BACKGROUND

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Background

"Petri.Vista" was created during the COVID-19 pandemic when the world suddenly shut down, and the news was constantly filled with "social distancing" simulations. I felt like I was just one of the bouncing balls on the screen. During that time, I began exploring how to create and work with agents and simulations, discovering how they reflect and interact with reality.

1. Social Distancing

During COVID-19, simulations modelled social distancing's impact on virus spread. By representing individuals as agents, these models demonstrated how reducing contact slowed infection rates, flattening the curve. Visualizing interactions helped policymakers and the public grasp the importance of distancing measures. These simulations became vital tools for predicting outcomes and guiding strategies to mitigate the pandemic's impact.

2. Agent-based simulation

In 2019, I began exploring agent-based simulation and complex systems, which sparked my interest in artificial intelligence. This exploration stemmed from a fascination with how individual agents interact to create emergent behaviours and laid the foundation for my art journey into artificial intelligence.

Achievement

Media Art Category Finalist, The 27th ifva Awards, Hong Kong Arts Centre (Y:2022)