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Harm van den Berg is an artist whose experimental and investigative practice is grounded in research at the intersection of art and science. His work explores the invisible dynamics and self-organizing processes present in natural systems, He focuses on the concept of emergence—where new forms arise through fundamental principles of self-organization that shape physical reality. Emergence is the spontaneous formation of new forms and structures without external guidance—a process observable in nature, technology, and social systems. Consider a flock of birds forming intricate patterns in the sky, or a blockchain network, where independent participants collectively build a reliable system without central authority. Similarly, artificial intelligence appears to develop a form of ‘consciousness’ from vast amounts of data and probability calculations (Theory of Mind). To examine these phenomena, Van den Berg utilizes a variety of media, including drawing and sound, to reveal the underlying structures of non-hierarchical networks and systems, providing a comprehensive investigation into the nature of creation.
In his drawing series, Van den Berg establishes a set of self-imposed rules, meticulously crafting numerous small graphic elements leading to emergent, complex patterns and cloud-like structures. They unfold unpredictably, reflecting the erratic yet intricate behaviors seen in decentralized systems. By intentionally relinquishing control over the process, he enables complexity to develop organically, mirroring the tension between order and chaos inherent in natural processes.
Van den Berg’s sound works further explore the role of chance, deliberately moving away from the notion of a predetermined outcome. He constructs immersive sonic environments from various sound samples, offering an experience that engages beyond the visual realm. In recent years, his practice has expanded to include algorithms and artificial intelligence, both as tools and subjects of investigation at the same time. By incorporating these technologies as creative mediums, Van den Berg explores the balance between handing over control to automated systems and maintaining the integrity of his artistic authorship.
Harm van den Berg was born in 1970 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the Gerrit Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam in 1996. He has performed at various venues, including The Paviljoens museum in Almere, Netherlands, Zoo Gallery in Nantes, France, Galeria Klovicevi in Zagreb, Croatia, and the Crossing Border Festival in Amsterdam.
His work has been exhibited at numerous galleries and institutions, including Kunsthal KAdE, Museum Belvedere, Kunstvereniging Diepenheim, Goethe Institute Amsterdam, Netherlands Media Art Institute, W139, Stroom HCBK, Arti et Amicitiae, Amsterdam, De Voorkamer in Lier, Belgium, and AC Institute in New York City. Van den Berg has received grants from the Mondrian Fund and Amsterdam Fund for the Arts, which have allowed him to continue his research and artistic practice. He currently lives and works in Amsterdam.
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Harm van den Berg © 2024