Daniela de Paulis

Cogito

Abstract

'Cogito' is an art project speculating on the creative and philosophical possibilities of exploring the cosmos by means of radio waves. The title is inspired by Cartesian philosophy and aims at linking the project to the ongoing debate on mind-body-consciousness, of which René Descartes was an important figure for his dualistic vision on the mind-body matter. Also recent experiments in quantum physics seem to suggest extraordinary links between the matter of the mind and that of the cosmos, raising profound questions on the nature of consciousness and perception. Sending thoughts into outer space is thus a symbolic action for shifting our consciousness from the earth-centred perspective, to the cosmos-wide perspective, while questioning the mathematical notion of intelligence, as conceived by some relevant SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) researchers. The project is developed in collaboration with space philosopher Frank White, founder of the 'Overview Institute', a group of researchers engaged with the study of the 'overview effect' caused by seeing the earth from outer space. A brain lab, installed inside the cabin of the Dwingeloo radio telescope and consisting in an EEG headset, allows visitors to send their thoughts into outer space, while experiencing the immersive view of the Earth seen from Space through a visual simulator. The project aims at fostering a global awareness of our planet, raising questions on timely political and geographical issues. Ultimately, this is the objective I share with the Overview Institute: travelling into space for better understanding our planet and reflecting upon ourselves. confluence of supernatural and scientific (or at least materialistic) ideas.

Biography

Daniela de Paulis is a visual artist working with video, installation and performance, exhibiting internationally and often collaborating with other artists, scientists and radio amateurs. She holds a BA from the Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome, Italy, and a Master Degree in Fine Arts from Plymouth University, UK. Since October 2009 she has been the first artist in residence at the Dwingeloo radio telescope (NL). She is currently a PhD student at the Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam, developing her research on Interstellar Transmissions in Live Performance. Since 2010 she has been collaborating with the international collective Astronomers Without Borders (AWB), as the founder and director of the AstroArts programme. In 2013 she founded Cabine Voltaire, a pioneering online, collaborative platform for open debate on the arts and science. More information on her work can be found on www.opticks.info and www.danieladepaulis.com.