Synaptic Optic (2008)

A fictional / symbolic representation:

The green "flower" represents an algae in resemblance of a neuron. The spiral stands for light and transformation and acts here as a technical component. The wires reveal a neuron. The star-shaped one is the soma and the closed circle is the cell nucleus. The chain-like shape is the axon. Overall, the wire mesh is intended to represent a neuromorphic computer.

Neurons can be controlled optogenetically. Optogenetics is a method that allows neurons to be activated or inhibited by light. This is achieved by genetically introducing light-sensitive proteins into the neurons. The genes for this come from algae and bacteria.

When I created the picture, optogenetic techniques, where light is used to specifically activate neurons, made significant progress and opened new possibilities for controlling neural activity.

There were also major developments in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), with both non-invasive methods like EEG and invasive techniques such as implanted electrodes being refined to extract precise brain signals. Robots and other devices began using these signals to perform human-like movements or assist people with disabilities. Machine learning was increasingly used to decode these brainwaves and turn them into actionable commands. Artificial intelligence helped analyze neural patterns and translate them into actions, taking the interaction between humans and machines to a new level.

These advancements seemed no longer just futuristic but immediately achievable. The idea of merging human biology with technology was fascinating and offered a glimpse into a future that was already becoming a reality. Today, this topic remains a source of endless creative and technological possibilities, continuing to shape not only how we understand the world, but also how we interact with technology and how it is transforming our society and lives.

🤗 For a more nuanced discussion, please feel free to use the comments section, private messages or the anonymous contact form on my website.