In "1,000,000 Stories," an artificial intelligence (AI) tells over a million stories through combinations of learned texts, visuals, and sound. These combinations of different elements result in completely new contexts and address today's multitude of narratives and their interpretations. Examples abound in recent years, such as the COVID-19 pandemic that caused a split in society, political issues, or the threat of climate catastrophe.
The central point of this work is a birch tree canopy covered with sensors. The sensors are housed in felt balls made of natural undyed sheep's wool and provide input values for an algorithm that combines AI-generated texts with video and sound snippets. The tree crown comes from a birch tree that had to be cut down due to climate change. Between the remains of the dead tree are two still living plants, which are lifted up with gold chains.
Next to the treetop, an illustrated teapot with a foot is moved by a servo motor. This is the star of the animation, which can be seen on a monitor. It shows how rumors (gossip) or "fake news" spread. Jumping from one tea and coffee klatch to the next, numerous stories and rumors spread. Papparazzi ambush celebrities to the limits of total surveillance in public spaces. Despite the downsides, the culture and news industry thrives on this craze and continues to operate its much-loved spectacle.