In contemporary society, reality and virtual reality are intertwined. The increasing integration of technology into our lives and the ability of virtual reality to simulate sensory and perceptual experiences blur the line between the authentic and the simulated, seemingly erasing the distinction.

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Paradoxically, despite digital hyperconnectivity, we often find ourselves disconnected from the real world. We frequently drift away from reality, resulting in increased isolation and shallowness in our interpersonal relationships.

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Borderline is a reflection of the sense of belonging in a pivotal historical moment. Beyond territorial aspects, there is a cultural heritage and collective identity associated with a specific place, origin, community, or cultural heritage. These elements act as anchors that connect us to our roots, providing us with a sense of rootedness, security, and stability.

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The physical world plays a fundamental role as a stabilizing medium, offering solidity and permanence in an ephemeral world. "Borderline" invites us to fight for what is ours, to set boundaries in our relationship with the digital, and to preserve our connection to the tangible. It is a call to value and protect what truly belongs to us.

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For this artwork, GPT-3 was asked to choose 10 nations it believed to have a strong sense of belonging, and it selected:

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1. Japan, for its deep cultural traditions, a strong sense of community, and shared values like respect and hono

2. Iceland, as a small island nation with a tightly-knit community, rich cultural heritage, and a strong sense of pride in its unique language and history.

3. India, due to its diverse population, deep cultural roots, and strong attachment to traditions, fostering a strong sense of national identity and belonging.

4. Ireland, for its rich cultural heritage, tight-knit communities, and pride in Irish traditions, language, and history.

5. Israel, as a nation with a strong sense of belonging among its people due to shared history, religion, and collective memory of struggle and perseverance.

6. South Korea, known for its shared language, rich cultural traditions, and a strong emphasis on family and community values, which contribute to a strong national identity.

7. Greece, for its historical significance, proud cultural heritage, and deep attachment to traditions, resulting in a profound sense of national pride.

8. Mexico, as a nation with a strong sense of identity rooted in its indigenous heritage, vibrant traditions, and a deep sense of community.

9. Brazil, despite its diversity, maintains a strong sense of national identity through its rich cultural traditions, passion for football, and collective pride in its achievements.

10. Scotland, for its distinctive cultural identity, including bagpipes, kilts, and the Gaelic language, fostering a strong sense of belonging among its people.

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This series consists of ten resin pieces that take the form of miniatures, recreating scenes of battles between humans and machines. In each scene, a minimalist flag of each country designed by the AI Starryai is displayed.

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Borderline is an exercise that seeks to reaffirm the value of the physical object, not only as an entity in itself but as an expression that opposes the disappearance of the physical world and the dissolution of objects in favor of digitization and incorporeality.

 

In addition to its symbolic intent, this piece also serves as a mediating device in an increasingly technology-invaded world. Its intrinsic physical characteristics, such as the ability to reduce the magnetic fields generated by electronic devices (based on Wilhelm Reich's theories of energy and Orgone), make it impossible to convert into an NFT since the image and form are only part of the whole, while its physical function encompasses the rest, providing a comprehensive experience that transcends the digital realm.