“Once we know the consequences of our actions, are we not complicit?” — Severn Cullis-Suzuki

Charismatic Metafauna is is a danse macabre in steel of endangered species marching toward a portal representing extinction. The artworks incorporate sensors, watching for disrespectful behavior with AI-enabled cameras and will ‘sicken’ and ‘die’, their flames growing dim, lights going out and music growing dull.  They may be revived only through careful treatment (keeping a careful distance and playing music to them on nearby instruments). The artwork locates the viewer in the position of responsibility for the safety and health of the ecosphere around us.

By using layered interactivity to dissolve the perceived subject/object relationship between participant and artwork in the context of species conservation we obviate the distinction between human actor and environment. This induces an awareness of the ecological consequences of individual behavior. 

The sculpture garden casts the viewer as a crucial agent acting within a system that governs the health, beauty, and longevity of their surroundings. Empathic consideration of the artwork’s needs as an essential part of enjoying the space deepens the lesson by making each participant directly responsible for the experience of all. Establishing a commons fosters accountability and community, and underscores how we can and must confront imminent climate challenges together. 

Injury done to the world around us is immediately, reciprocally done to ourselves

Charismatic Metafauna was created in partnership with Majorelle Arts