From Hardware to Software

The Past and present

As the focal point of this case study, textiles were chosen due to their strong appeal to our senses. It also is an excellent material for connecting the past, the present and the future, as it refers to one of the oldest cultural technologies and is a key element in the development of the digital code.What once started with the 19th century weaving loom with punched cards invented by Joseph-Marie Jacquard, was later followed by the first calculator by Ada Lovelace and her husband Charles Babbage, to finally lead to the pixel and today’s computers. This connection intertwines the digital and analogue realms, as well as past and present.By incorporating nature as a inspiration, the collective further explores the relationship between the tangible and virtual, demonstrating that they can meet each other in good spirits.

Materialize the Pixel, Pixelate the Material

In the online and offline exhibition 'From Hardware to Software', the collective addresses the question of how tactility can be introduced into the digital space. Particularly within design and production processes for the materials industry, tactility is an essential element that appears to be hindered by increasing digitalization. However, touch is also recognized by scientists as necessary for well-being across various fields.The collective firmly believes that the digital realm need not impede physical experiences. In fact, they contend that it can aid in making production processes more efficient and sustainable. Therefore, they have developed a specific case study in which they both simulate and actualize physical touch through both real and virtual means. In essence, they aim to materialize the pixel and pixelate the material, bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds.

A Case Study for Future Possibilities

In both the virtual exhibition online and the physical exhibition in Paris, the collective strives to enhance the relationship between textiles, tactility, and experience.They aim to create situations where the digital interacts with the material and vice versa. This is achieved through physical presentations of textiles and digital animations representing textiles, including wallcoverings, curtains, and furniture upholstery, created in collaboration with EE Exclusives.Additionally, a 3D configurator allows visitors to explore textiles in a virtual yet tactile environment. These approaches offer an overview of potential possibilities and allow for testing with the audience, sparking conversations and encouraging imaginative thinking about future possibilities.

Network of Creatives

The Collective is initiated by Nina van Bart and is a future-oriented and multidisciplinary partnership, aiming to let the physical and the digital reinforce each other and working towards an efficient and sustainable material industry for tomorrow. Firmly believing in the power of collaboration and cross-pollination, they connect the insights and possibilities of various disciplines and arrive at co-creative solutions to contemporary problems.