Robot Art Show “Intention Machines”: Robotic Lawrence Ferlinghetti | SF

Submitted by the Event Organizer

The work of Kal Spelletich features approximately seven robotic sculptures, each representing an actual person influential in Spelletich’s life and artistic career. Among those represented include poet and artist Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Emory Douglas, who worked as the Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party in the 1960s. Each robot wears unwashed work clothes previously owned and worn by the person embodied by the work.

Viewers activate the robots by touching an interface sensor that enables the machine to ‘read’ the viewer, and react with a responsive gesture. Sensors on the robots are programmed to detect a variety of inputs: proximity, touch, force, breath-alcohol content, polygraph metrics, and ambient sound. The mechanical models genuflect, clasp hands in prayer and whirl like Sufi dervishes.

The Opening Reception takes place on Saturday, April 11, from 5-7 pm.

On Saturday, May 23 will feature a musical performance from 3-5 pm featuring the robots, as well as Bay Area painter, street artist and performer Chris Johanson who will make a special guest appearance at the turntables.

About Kal Spelletich: In his capacities as an artist, Zen philosopher, ardent activist, inventor and musician, Kal Spelletich has spent his creative career exploring the powerful possibilities of combining art and mysticism with the rigors of science and technology. Spelletich is well known for his mechanized, fire-ensconcing robotic art, but his latest work leans away from pyrotechnics and towards a spiritual vein.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.