February / March 2025
Collective Energy
Human connections are defined by shared experiences. They weave an intricate tapestry of empathy, collaboration and inspiration. In these bonds, we find comfort, understanding and fertile ground for new ideas. When we unite by a common goal or listen to each other, the results are truly transformative.
Innovation is at the intersection of diverse perspectives, proving that the most profound breakthroughs are born not in isolation but together. Collective energy propels us forward, whilst resilience is key. Humanity’s strength lies in the ability to grow, learn and reimagine new futures. This issue of Aesthetica is dedicated to the movers and shakers. We introduce Ryoji Ikeda, one of the world’s leading composers and media artists. The High opens the American debut of data-verse, Ikeda’s trilogy of monumental, immersive light and sound installations, which reflects upon the digitalisation of global society. Floor-to-ceiling projections feature visual data extracted from mathematical theories and quantum physics.
Next, we chat with curator, Elona Lubytė, about Imagining the Future, the first major exhibition in France and in Europe of the late pioneer Aleksandra Kasuba. The artist is known for her multidisciplinary practice on the threshold of design, architecture and experimental art. She was a visionary of the 20th century space exploration era, and this retrospective is constructed as a bright, inspiring narrative about loss and possibility. Finally, Gleeson Paulino takes centre stage at the PhotoVogue Festival. His photography is characterised by an appreciation for natural lighting and the vibrancy of Brazil's diverse landscapes.
In photography – we look at lens-based experimentation which probes the concept of the subject within an image. We feature Greg White, Heather Evans Smith, Martin Levêque, Sandra Bartocha and Stephanie O'Connor. Our cover photographer, Tamara Dean, highlights vital connections between humans and the environment. Finally, the Last Words go to Mous Lamrabat about his show in Marrakech.