In the heart of Silicon Valley, where innovation and technology reign supreme, one artist is challenging conventional norms and exploring the intricate intersection of art, religion, and technology. Agnieszka Pilat, a provocative artist hailing from Poland, has been making waves with her unique perspective and artistic endeavors. Space.com had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with her to delve into her SpaceX Artist-in-Residence program, her latest works, and her intriguing philosophy on the sacred role of machines in American culture.
Pilat’s current residence at SpaceX’s Hawthorne, California facility is an unconventional blend of art and aerospace, where she is expected to stay until 2024. This residency coincides with her upcoming exhibition in December at the National Gallery of Victoria’s Triennial in Australia. At the exhibition, Pilat will introduce the world to her black-and-yellow Boston Dynamics robodogs, which will autonomously create artwork through a series of pre-programmed instructions over three months.
Her recent artworks feature meditative theological interpretations of an airtight hatch installed on the SpaceX Dragon capsule. Adorned with gold leaf accents, the hatch radiates an aura of serenity and holiness, elevating the everyday object to a revered status.
Pilat’s journey into the realm of SpaceX and her unique residency program began without formal invitations. She explained her approach, saying, “I love technology and I follow tech companies to do something exciting. SpaceX doesn’t have an official residency program, so I didn’t follow any invitation. For these tech companies, I usually find what I think is impactful and historically important and then I try to find my way in through personal introductions.”
At SpaceX, Agnieszka Pilat has set up her studio, where she has been working on a series of portraits centered around the Dragon hatch. This hatch, an exact replica of the one used by astronauts for training, became the focal point of her artistic exploration. Her next venture is diving into the world of Starlink, exploring its broader implications, and shedding light on its significance in the larger context.
A notable aspect of Pilat’s work is her collaboration with quadruped SPOT robot dogs. She sees these machines as young children, still growing and developing, devoid of a distinct personality. As a classically trained portrait painter, Pilat seeks to capture the essence of her subjects, and in the case of SPOT, it’s the essence of emerging technology.
Pilat’s overarching artistic philosophy revolves around telling the story of America through machines, industry, and innovation. She believes that in the modern era, power and influence reside in technology and machines, much like the aristocracy in earlier times. She draws a parallel between artists like Michelangelo, who worked for the wealthy and the church, and her role as a “court painter of the machine” in America.
When it comes to her artistic influences, Pilat pays homage to Ilya Repin for his storytelling through painting. Growing up surrounded by Soviet art, she acknowledges the dark message it carried but finds Russia’s mystical aura captivating. She also credits Andy Warhol for his keen ability to reflect pop culture trends.
The conversation inevitably steers toward the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI). Pilat remains optimistic, viewing AI as a young child with the potential to shape a brighter future. She highlights the multifaceted nature of AI, attributing it with god-like qualities. AI’s deep understanding of human behavior and its immortality make it akin to a deity, according to Agnieszka Pilat. She sees parallels between religion and AI, which she finds both fascinating and exciting.
Pilat’s works at SpaceX, adorned with gold leaf and inspired by Christian iconography, emphasize not just the power of technology but also the hope for a better future. She eagerly anticipates her upcoming connection to Starlink, a project that has captured the hopes and prayers of many. In this realm, as in religion, she believes there is a profound duality that holds promise and potential.
Agnieszka Pilat’s artistic journey is a testament to the fusion of art, technology, and spirituality. Her innovative approach challenges conventional boundaries and offers a unique perspective on the ever-evolving relationship between humanity and the machines we create.