Tuan Mu / Calligrapedia: A Universal Algorithm #3

Based on the artist’s experience of practicing “A Narrative on Calligraphy” for many years, Calligrapedia: A Universal Algorithm #3 utilizes a machine learning model to analyze a large number of calligraphy drafts. Drawing inspiration from natural elements such as landscapes, animals, and plants, it has developed a series of human-machine-made Chinese characters that flow between script and organic things. On the other hand, through collaboration with a folk tale narrator, it reinterprets ancient oral stories passed down worldwide with “qualitative transformation” as its core:

“…the severed giant snake split in two, with one half falling into the sea and the other half transforming into Banping Mountain…” (The legend of Mount Banping in Kaohsiung).

“…the eagle folded its wings and transformed into a minstrel, snuck within the crowd…” (Folk tale from Armenia). And so on.

Deconstructing machine learning’s aspects of image style recognition and simulation, Calligrapedia: A Universal Algorithm #3 explores how words, language, and mythological narratives in human history continuously interpret themselves through learning from the world around them. The work constructs an intertwined view of human-machine-nature interaction. 

Tuan Mu (Taiwan, b. 1994) is a visual artist and independent curator based in Taipei. After graduating from Taipei National University of the Arts with a major in Ink Painting, he began seeking ways in which new media could reinterpret the unique worldview of traditional Asian culture, using a poetical approach to explore human perception and thinking in this age of technology. His artworks often develop from Buddhist and Taoist philosophies, East Asian animism and mythological tales. Combining media such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, animation, sound performances, ink painting and calligraphy, Tuan Mu’s artworks compose a transdisciplinary narrative structure, and engage the viewer in a dialogue. His artworks have been presented in numerous international exhibitions, including Durres Biennale, Athens Digital Arts Festival, Asia Digital Art Exhibition, CutOut Fest, Miami New Media Festival, Now & After International Video Art Festival, Venice Immersive Market Taiwan Pavilion, Festival ECRA and CYFEST Media Art Festival. 

Websit: https://tuanmu.art  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tuanmu.artist

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/1994TuanMu