Future Botanica

IDFA DocLab Competition for Digital Storytelling 　　The idea that nature and technology are incompatible is outdated. Nature is full of cultivated elements introduced to serve the needs of human beings. The nature around us is subjected to -isms such as anthropocentrism, colonialism and capitalism. 　　Add to this new technological systems such as AI and robotics, from which autonomous entities emerge that will probably also merge with nature, and an infinite number of possible future scenarios unfold. 　　These speculations are the subject of the innovative augmented reality app Future Botanica, which features in an installation during IDFA. The app allows the user to design ecosystems with new nature using an AI. 　　These virtual ecosystems are then planted in existing physical nature: you superimpose digital designs—one of the proposed scenarios or one you make yourself—on existing landscapes. By making your imaginings visible, you can safely explore ideas, expectations, fears and desires regarding the future of the natural environment.