How does the human body experience the effects of air pollution and how consciously do we perceive them? How can these invisible, often imperceptible changes in the body and emotions be transformed into data and expressed through an artistic creation that brings us into direct contact with what we experience in the atmosphere every day?

In the context of the «Transition to 8: European societies in flux» (TT8) project, which aims to raise awareness and motivate us in relation to the effects of air pollution and its social dimensions, the artist ΜΑΟΤΙΚ will use quantitative and qualitative data on the physical and emotional reactions of Elefsina residents, obtained from sociodrama sessions, as a source of inspiration to create an interactive multimedia installation. The biometric data collected from participants during the sessions via sensors will be transformed by MAOTIK into an original multisensory installation that makes the invisible threats of infectious airborne microparticles tangible.

During his artistic residency in Elefsina, an Open Studio will take place on January 16 (starting at 7:30 p.m.), along with an artist talk, inviting the public to be a dynamic part of the creative process and see the stages of the project’s development up close.

About MAOTIK

Mathieu Le Sourd, also known as MAOTIK, is a French digital artist specializing in the creation of experiential environments, interactive installations, and audiovisual performances, working at the intersection of art, science, and technology. He studied Digital Media Production at the London College of Communication in London and holds a Master’s degree in Digital Arts from Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona.

MAOTIK creates immersive environments using specially designed software that transforms the perception of reality in real time, while his approach to generative art is characterized by the fluid movement of images and their seamless integration into immersive spaces. His work is inspired by nature, with the aim of creating audiovisual sculptures based on randomness, creating unique experiences each time. He often involves the audience in his work, pushing the boundaries of perception through generative art, sound, algorithms, and data, in order to immerse viewers in a fully immersive artistic experience.

The work he will create during his artistic residency in Elefsina for TT8, as well as the works of other artists who have been hosted in the countries of the partner organizations, will be presented in exhibitions and events in Greece, France, Slovenia, and Armenia, as well as at festivals such as SONICA in Slovenia and Maintenant in France.

About Τransition to 8: European societies in flux

Transition to 8: European societies in flux (TT8) is an innovative project implemented under the program Creative Europe, in Greece, France, Slovenia, and Armenia, combining social sciences, technology, and contemporary art through participatory cultural and artistic activities. It aims to create innovative artistic expressions that will encourage people from different social backgrounds to recognize their common characteristics and raise awareness of the effects of air pollution. The project lays the foundations for an expanded role for art in society, using creativity to promote climate action, in line with the Εuropean Green Deal.

Starting its journey in 2020 from the cultural management and production company MENTOR with Elefsina as its pilot, the project was implemented until 2023 as part of the nationwide initiative “Research-Create-Innovate Cycle II,” and in the last two years it has expanded its footprint at the European level. During this period, a series of participatory actions have been carried out in three different European cities, as well as six different artistic residencies with artists from all over Europe, while its culmination is planned for 2026, with a festival and final activities in the participating cities.

The event will be held in English.

Register your participation via the link below: https://form.jotform.com/253573408588368.