the transcendental [n˚3]

Zoom image

Ryoji Ikeda premieres two works at ARTe SONoro, Madrid's first dedicated sound art exhibition.

the transcendental is a series inspired by discussions with the Harvard number theorist Benedict Gross about mathematical definitions of infinity surrounding the philosophically challenging concept, V¬≠L, for Ikeda’s solo exhibition at Le Laboratoire in Paris 2008.

A transcendental number is mathematically infinite. In works inspired by this concept, a snapshot of millions of digits taken from a transcendental number is engraved onto a stainless steel panel or printed onto photographic paper.

In the transcendental [nº3], the infinite digits of a transcendental number are generated by a real-time computer programme and presented on a display. Visitors will experience a fragment of a transcendental number that knows no end. No two visitors will witness the same fragment, making each visitor’s experience an entirely unique glimpse at infinity’s threshold.

Exhibition

22 April - 13 June 2010 | ARTe SONoro | La Casa Encendida, Madrid, ES

Image: Scott Massey, Courtesy Surrey Art Gallery, Canada

Commissioned by La Casa Encendida
Produced by Forma

Related links

Ryoji Ikeda
test pattern [n˚2]

Further information for presenters of Forma projects

Professional