Research Project

The Memory Matrix

Palmyra Arch Installation and Exhibition, A collaboration with Lead Artist Azra Aksamija

Keywords

Designing with, heritage, Fab lab Egypt

In the news

Article on the Memory Matrix

Team

With Lead and MIT Professor Artist Azra Aksamija

Description

I collaborated with MIT Professor Azra Aksamija on an art installation at MIT called “Memory Matrix,” which recreated parts of cultural heritage digitally and physically through community workshops. I first organized a workshop in Egypt in Cairo Makerfaire with Azra, and later worked on project research, fabrication and pixel production. The Memory Matrix is a monument in the making that explores the possibilities for future heritage creation, employing new fabrication techniques and transcultural workshops. The Matrix is made of border fences carrying over 20,000 small fluorescent Plexiglas elements or “pixels.” These elements are laser cut with holes outlining vanished and threatened heritage from different parts of the world. The larger matrix of pixels reveals an image of the recently destroyed Arch of Triumph from the ancient Semitic city of Palmyra, which is now only visible through the movement of light and wind.