COMPUTER 1.0 Marries Hand Woven Threads and Computer Code

For the past year and a half, artist Victoria Manganiello has had her head down working in collaboration with designer Julian Goldman on a project entitled COMPUTER 1.0. The extensive installation uses handwoven threads alongside computer code to acknowledge the computer’s history.

The concept of a computer was first developed back in 1801 by master silk weaver Joseph Marie Jacquard, a mechanical loom that could run a ‘program’ to create textiles without manual labor. This technology eventually led the way for groundbreaking work by Charles Babbage, Ada Lovelace, and Alan Turing.

The programmed kinetic surface of COMPUTER 1.0 creates light and shadow filled space for viewers to make their way through, a digital ghost of sorts. The installation reminding us that society has been grappling with the question of are we better off with or without technology?

COMPUTER 1.0 will be on view in Victoria Manganiello: Studio Focus at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, NY from May 17th – June 30th. If you happen to be in town, be sure to check out the opening May 16th from 6-8 pm.

Kelly Beall is senior editor at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based graphic designer and writer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, and enjoys sharing her finds with others. When undistracted by great art and design, she can be found making a mess in the kitchen, consuming as much information as possible, or on the couch with her three pets. Find her @designcrush on social.

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