[ISEA2017] Artists Talk: Asim Bhatti, John McCormick & Adam Nash — Neuron Conductor: Visualising cultured neural responses to the introduction of viruses and chemicals through a robotic arm conducting music

Artists Statement

Neuron Conductor investigates the effects of biological neuron activity, cultured on a microelectrode array, in response to the introduction of viruses and pharmacological treatments. The responses are visualised through the movement of a robot which conducts a unique musical score. The resulting art/science work presents an alternative means of visualising and understanding neural responses as well as raising awareness and accessibility of the research. Neuron Conductor investigates real health issues in a unique manner as well as contemplating the role of non-human agency within hybrid biological/digital systems.

  • Asim Bhatti, Deakin Motion.Lab, RMIT University, Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation, Australia
  • John McCormick, Deputy Director, Deakin Motion.Lab, Melbourne, Australia. John McCormick is an artist whose interests include electronic performance, interactive installation, machine learning for interaction and robot performance. John is deputy director of the Deakin Motion.Lab and also works with the Centre for Intelligent Systems Research at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia deakinmotionlab.com.au
  • Adam Nash, Deakin Motion.Lab, RMIT University, Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation, Australia