Exhibition „Out of Control“

Facebook, Twitter & Co. – wherever we go, we leave behind a trail of data. In cooperation with Ars Electronica, the permanent exhibition “Out of Control” has been on view since October 2018 and aims to raise awareness of where we disclose our personal data and how we move in the digital world.

Fourteen temporary containers in the gardens of the Vienna Chamber of Labour offer a total of nine stations on topics such as social media, big data or password security. At the interactive stations in particular, it’s all about getting involved. From the history of the World Wide Web to hacked passwords and seemingly deleted text messages to the power of smartphones and big data – everything is conveyed in a playful manner, showing for each context what data is relevant, what it is used for and how it is possible to protect one’s privacy. Garamantis was commissioned by Ars Electronica to create some of these interactive terminals.

Multitouch screens display data streams

The installation “Big Data” symbolises data streams by means of a high-resolution particle effect. On a touchscreen, visitors can find their own entry point to various subject areas and trigger videos that play on two separate monitors.

Interactive projection screen on the subject of data protection

The “Your invisible companion” station uses a 2 x 1 metre interactive projection-mapped wall that combines a printed surface with multi-touch features and animated content. Touching the printed surface brings different areas to life and dynamically visualises them. The mural shows, for example, how personal data finds its way into the cloud – and to large internet companies such as Facebook. A calibration tool allows the animations to be easily and effectively calibrated to the corresponding mural prints.

Photos: Ars Electronica Solutions