Looking at the link between biology and technology, the animal and the machine, the film work Emergent Properties takes its cues from the writings of  Jackob Von Uexküll (1864-1944, biologist), where imagery of organic and mechanical structures intermingle with a narrative generated from a text by Gergory Bateson (1904-1980, anthropologist); a fictional tongue in cheek conversation with his daughter that sets out to define instincts. Spanning these two thinkers are common interests in examining patterns of behaviour that define an ontology of being. Each examines a path that leads to these structures and the aggregation of parts that leads to activity.

Emergent Properties is the culmination of artist Padraig Cunningham SPARK residency at The Hive, an enterprise centre in Carrick-on-Shannon. As part of the SPARK residency the role of the artist is to make work inspired by the environment, materials, staff or working practices of a company. This provides the opportunity to explore different methods of working, new influences, and the opportunity to produce art in a unique context. The Hive’s focus on technological enterprise is the point of departure for the work Emergent Properties. It examines how technological systems and biological references have influenced the working environment. It looks at the presupposition that we are all interconnected in a ecological, mechanical structure and how technology interrupts, influences the everyday and how the automated activities of the machine have become a force in shaping our lives.

SPARK is a programme aimed at artists who are interested in working in new environments and companies who are interested in collaborating with artists and promoting creativity within their organisations.

SPARK is funded by Leitrim County Council, Local Enterprise Office Leitrim and The Arts Council.

Emergent Properties, HD single screen, 41min30sec, 2015