The Pseudonymous Algorithm
Rory Gillen
The Pseudonymous Algorithm aims to explore the bias that can stem from a seemingly objective or random set of algorithmic actions. Through an investigation spurred by the rise of Generative Adversarial Nets (GANS) in the online zeitgeist through sites such as thispersondoesnotexist.com, this installation aims to address algorithmic concerns by creating The Quincunx Camera, an algorithm capable of a similar feat. This device, through deceivingly random boolean actions, creates a unique portrait of an artificial individual on demand. The Pseudonymous Algorithm engages with how post digital technology has affected our framework of identity by investigating the limits of computation, the recursive nature of dataset training, and the ethical concerns of using problematic data to inform machine learning. Ultimately, we often expect the results from such algorithms be unbiased sheerly by nature of being ‘untouched’ by human hands. Such an assumption is incredibly dangerous. By responding to these emerging conditions, this installation encourages the audience to manifest new identities at the push of a button.
Rory Gillen is an emerging artist currently working and studying in Canberra. He was awarded the 2019 Gray Smith and Joan Scott Memorial Prize for his undergraduate work, and is currently undertaking his honours year at the ANU School of Art and Design. His work investigates themes of algorithmic social control and machine learning with a particular focus on the consequences of placing computational and machine labour behind layers of abstraction. Trained as a photographer, Rory views the digital image as a fundamentally machine readable object, and is fascinated by the implications of such an assertion.