2014

An artificial plant with motors attached at the base of each branch. These motors cause the artificial leaves to move, activating the inanimate object making it appear at the same time more alive and more mechanical. The motors are controlled by a light sensor so that, much like real plants which are dependent on light, the movement will slow down or stop when a shadow falls on it. At night it will go to sleep, or if people stand too close and cast shadows on it, the plant will nervously stop moving.

The work explores reality and unreality in our technology dependent society which is increasingly defined by online interactions and relationships with robots or Artificial Intelligences. It imagines a time where living albeit ‘still’ plants are replaced by robotically animated but artificial plants that we can interact with.

Watch a video of the artificial plant

About the Artist

Tully Arnot has been exhibiting since 2009 at galleries and institutions both nationally and abroad. He has completed residences in Beijing, Sydney, Melbourne and Milan.

He has also been commended for his work in numerous competitions.

Tully Arnot's website