'Relic' unveils a novel visual language of carpet patterns, born from the synergy of artist and machine. Mammadov's project utilizes GAN algorithms to analyze visual patterns in an extensive carpet pattern archive, meticulously compiled over seven years. This interaction of artist and AI yields unique, yet reminiscent designs. Mammadov's approach, ceding partial control to the machine, probes into themes of cultural appropriation and the erosion of deep-rooted traditions in our globalized milieu. Simultaneously, he reasserts ownership within a modern framework, redefining these patterns as symbols of a bygone era.
Expanding the scope of these patterns, Mammadov moves beyond traditional carpet weaving to embrace computational systems adept at discerning patterns in data. Historical carpet designs thus transform into digital data threads. Mammadov perceives these as crucial informational vessels, reflecting societal narratives, blurring the lines between fine art and craft through technological interpretation. The physical aspects of screens and machine learning are emphasized by the visible, entangled wires behind them. These wires not only expose the artwork's inner workings but also echo the authenticity markers found in real carpets, known through their knots.
Mammadov's latest innovation integrates this conceptual framework with a practical application. He has created a trail using particle simulation in Houdini, drawing inspiration from GAN-generated videos of carpet patterns. This results in a carpet-like thread or trail simulation, which is informed by the GAN carpet patterns. This addition to his repertoire symbolizes the convergence of digital artistry with traditional motifs, further exploring the intersection of technology and cultural heritage.
'Relic', therefore, transcends traditional cultural understanding, reshaping it through the prism of societal evolution. It presents alternate futures, bridging history with contemporary communication methods, heralding a new era of cross-cultural exchange through technology. In 'Relic', the ancient and the modern converge, mutually reinventing and enriching each other's narrative.