ROBOTS: HOSTILE OR HELPFUL? BANKSTOWN ARTS CENTER PRESENTS FEM-ME

As technology permeates our daily lives, the biggest question people are asking is: Can robots completely replace humans?

But the artists in the latest women’s exhibition at Bankstown Arts Center are taking a different approach and asking instead: how can we collaborate with robots?

Multisensory exhibition FEM-Me: female mechanics and other kinetic systems explores human-robot interaction from a women’s perspective.

For Sydney-based artist, designer and researcher Lian Loke, the topic prompted her to rethink what kind of world we want to create with robots.

“Robots seem to be the future, and I don’t know if I’m happy with the future that’s taking shape,” Loki said.

“Most of what the industry produces are autonomous machines posing as humans. We’re more interested in collaboration and how we can collaborate with robots.”

Loki’s work is on display at the Bankstown Arts Center alongside artists Narjis Mirza, Dagmar Reinhardt, Marie Velonaki and Wendy Zhang.

“What I’m really excited about is a very short dance film called Sample 1. Interspecies dreaming.which this hybrid half-human and half-machine creature offers,” Loki said.

“The specimen learns to move around the world. How does he do this with five limbs, one of which is a hinged wooden structure attached to my waist?

Western Sydney artist Narjis Mirza showcases her laser-cut cube, Al Asfar – The Passage of Light, which creates an immersive space where viewers can experience the power of light.

“As an artist who creates immersive light and sound installations, I joined this exhibition to explore the participation of women in the field of robotics,” Mirza said.

“I’m really excited to see technology-based artwork delving into the world of robotics and art kinetics.”

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek urged residents to stop by Bankstown Arts Center to see the vibrant exhibition.

“Whether you are an art enthusiast, a robot fanatic, or just looking for something to do on the weekend, this exhibition is sure to get you thinking,” said Mayor El Hayek.

FEM-Me: female mechanics and other kinetic systems is on display V Bankstown Arts Center before Saturday, November 9. The community is also invited to celebrate the end of the exhibition with a closing performance by Lian Loke and a group of artists led by co-curators on Saturday, November 9, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.