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 Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.

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