Visual Fields Keynote — Between Humans & Machines: Meaning Through Digital Craft

When machines can make almost anything, where does meaning come from - and what is left for humans to do?

In an age of endless AI output, the challenge is no longer producing more, but making meaning. As automation reshapes visual culture, the role of artists and designers is being redefined.

In this keynote, the Zürich-based Machine Arts Group, with Sofie Mart and Armin Aschenbrenner, explores digital craft as a practice between humans and machines. Working at the intersection of digital craft, embodied AI, robotics, and human-machine collaboration, they draw on hands-on experimentation with intelligent systems and physical materials. Making is framed as a conversational process, where the gap between code and material becomes a creative space for meaning.

Their keynote reimagines machines not just as tools, but as collaborators and performers, and argues for hands-on, DIY approaches to digital technologies as a way to move beyond the AI hype and rediscover more meaningful ways of making.

Join us on January 20 as they explore how meaning emerges between humans and machines.

💡 What will you learn?

• Why making meaning matters more than producing more.
• How digital craft becomes a conversation between humans, machines, and materials.
• Why the gap between code and material is a creative opportunity.
• How hands-on, DIY practices help artists reclaim capacity to act in the age of AI.

About the Machine Arts Group
www.machinearts.group

Connect with Sofie
LinkedIn · Instagram

Connect with Armin
LinkedIn · Instagram

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📍 Where?
Kulturhaus Helferei, near the Grossmünster in Niederdorf.
> Kirchgasse 13, 8001 Zürich
(Tram-Station Helmhaus)

📅 When?
Tuesday, January 20, 6:30 PM / 18:30 Uhr

⏰ What’s the schedule?
6:30 PM → Doors open
6:45 PM → Keynote + Q&A
7:30 PM → Networking

🔗 Discord link
Get event reminders and connect with other members on Discord:
➡️ discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk

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Who’s Visual Fields?
Visual Fields is a network of designers and creatives built for people to connect, support, and share with fellow experts.

We have upcoming events in Zürich, Basel, and Luzern.
Check out upcoming events

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Event policies
We have zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Be mindful not to make assumptions about gender, sexual orientation, or identity. Always ask for consent - for physical contact and work critique - and treat everyone and the space with respect.
All policies

Fine print (the friendly kind)
By joining, you agree that photos or videos taken at the event may be used by Visual Fields for promotional and communication purposes.

See you there! 😇