Layers in the Peace Machine

Layers in The Peace Machine is an engaging, cross-disciplinary media installation that captivatingly intertwines art and technology. This multi-part exhibition at Oulu City Hall in Finland celebrates Oulu's designation as the European Capital of Culture 2026, alongside Trenčín in Slovakia. The installation provides opportunities to interact with the artwork and other visitors through movement, sound, language and thought.

The artwork, based on the thought-provoking literary work "Peace Machine" by the late artificial intelligence researcher Timo Honkela, creatively depicts peace as an active, dynamic, and continuous process rather than a static state. The immersive installation is further enhanced by interactive experiences with the audience, known as 'experiencers', who not only observe the installation, but also actively create their own narratives about peace. Each encounter redefines the understanding of peace, providing participants with an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. This makes the experience interactive and potentially transformative, as it blurs the lines between the creators and the viewers. The installation encourages participants to contemplate their own connection to peace and significant peace-related issues It raises essential questions: What emotions or images emerge from the depths of the memories? What could be the participant's own role in peace work? Each individual contributes their unique experiences and perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of thoughts and emotions that illuminate the personal connections people have with the idea of peace, making each interaction distinctly different. Layers in The Peace Machine encourages the participant to deeply reflect on their own relationship with peace and to grapple with a variety of peace-related questions that can often feel daunting. What sort of memories, vivid images, and complex emotions arise when one contemplates peace? How can individuals work towards creating a more peaceful world in their everyday lives and interactions? The process invites introspection and stimulates thoughtful dialogues.

Transforming multiple spaces at the Oulu City Hall, the artwork sheds light on the multifaceted concept of “building peace”. The interplay of these various elements fosters an atmosphere where creativity and understanding can flourish, allowing participants to connect with one another on a deeper level. The artwork is structured to emphasise the effects of these interactions on the work itself and on the experiences of other participants. Through these profound means, Layers in the Peace Machine is not merely a static exhibition but rather an evolving part of the dynamic discourse about actions, choices, mutual interactions, and power dynamics, which all greatly affect the processes of peace. By reconsidering the very essence of how peace is conceptualised and acted upon, the piece invites a transformative journey for everyone involved, highlighting the communal responsibility in fostering tranquility and understanding.

The installation has been thoughtfully designed and implemented by the Ekho Collective, a collaborative group of art, design, and technology professionals renowned for their expertise in creating immersive art experiences: Iina Taijonlahti, Calvin Guillot, Essi Huotari, Vertti Luostarinen, Saara-Henriikka Mäkinen, Sini Parikka, Ilmari Pesonen, Olivia Pohjola, Timo Tikka and Begüm Çelik. Each member brings their unique skills and insights, contributing to a multifaceted experience that not only captivates the audience but also encourages them to contemplate the role of art in promoting understanding and dialogue surrounding the concept of peace.

The virtual part of the piece is now live and everyone can take part in building the Peace Machine.

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