In an experimental way, «Thank you for your data» invites us to reflect on the information we generate through our use of digital spaces and what happens to this collected content. absurda* has developed the mechanical-digital hybrid iC-U for this purpose, which can be activated by visitors to metaphorically simulate digital data processing.

Digital spaces have become a natural part of our everyday lives. The procedures of data processing and the traces we leave behind in these spaces remain mostly latent companions of our interactions. The enigmatic device iC-U translates this process into mechanical sequences and makes the released data physically visible. With its inviting appearance, iC-U fetches us from our comfort zone and moves us to reflect on everyday habits in dealing with digital media. What automatisms lie behind our willingness to provide personal information in exchange for these services? How much do we actually reveal about ourselves as we intuitively move through this world? The interaction between human and machine becomes a question of trust and a misleading sense of control.

– Design Biennale Zurich, 2021

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Exhibited at:

ÖFF Space Zürich 18 November – 18 December, 2021
Lenzburger Kulturtage 30 – 31 October, 2021
Designbiennale Zürich 12 August – 5 September, 2021

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We would like to express our huge gratitude to the following people who were involved in the implementation of the installation:

Sean Goff: Software Development / Programming
Josh Geisser: Software Architecture
Adrien Schryve: Prototyping / Consulting
Markus Aerni: Construction / Consulting
Alessandro Pasca: Construction
Jörg Huwyler: Protoyping / Consulting
Hélène Kettiger: Transport
+ everyone that supported us with their enthusiasm and advice!

Concept / Design / Art Direction / Construction by Studio absurda*

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For further information about the Privacy Policy of «Thank you for your data» please contact us via e-mail: info@absurda.ch