Incidental Data

2 August - 2 September

Unprecedented access to data and computer graphics has resulted in an explosion of information visualisation. Whether it is used to discover patterns in scientific data or for the communication of complex information, visual representation is everywhere.

Incidental Data gathered together work that falls to the edges, or in many cases outside of, conventional information visualisation. Devoid of graphs, charts, diagrams, and maps, at first glance this collection seems to have little to do with information graphics. Although these works did not seek to clarify complexity through the usual visual tropes, they materialised, measured, recorded and revealed information. Their provision of insight into natural phenomena and human activity leads to their classification as information visualisation.

Curated by Kate Sweetapple, the exhibition aimed to foreground information visualisation created by artists and designers who understand the potential of visual practices to reveal specific types of insights not afforded by algorithm-driven digital representations.

Christopher Baker (US)
Daniel Eatock (UK)
Chris Gaul (Australia)
Stacy Greene (US)
Tim Knowles (UK)
Sam Winston (UK)

Part of Sydney Design 11, presented by the Powerhouse Museum

Image: Stacy Greene Lipsticks 1992-1993 (detail). Courtesy the artist