Studio Digitaal

The introduction of new networking technologies such as web3 and blockchain, the rapid growth of AI applications and the race towards artificial general intelligence are having a major impact on our society, climate and daily lives. In a world where digital technologies are increasingly intertwined with all aspects of our culture, design plays a crucial role in balancing, defining and shaping our future-a future where technology and culture come together within an ethical framework.

As drivers for change, museums play a dual and essential role. They not only ensure future generations' engagement with cultural heritage, but also act as active players. Studio Digital embodies this dual role by critically examining the impact of technology on design practices and museums, and by working with designers, researchers and developers to build a sustainable digital future.

Two lines of research will underpin the studio through to its opening:

The ‘networked’ museum

What does it mean for a museum to participate in today's networked culture? AI and networking technology offer opportunities, but also challenges. How can we better network our collections by using web sharing standards and expanding our descriptive metadata? And what role does AI play in this, without neglecting collection care and creator integrity?

Permacomputation in the museum

Permacomputation is both a community and a set of principles, inspired by permaculture, that are applied to computer technology to use technology more sustainably. Studio Digitaal explores how these principles can guide the development of sustainable forms of (digital) cultural production, from the use of hardware to sustainable digital graphic design.