A massive, engaging art installation is on view at the Kennedy Center’s Reach Plaza this month. Dvořák Dreams, an “immersive data sculpture” by renowned artist Refik Anadol, uses AI to bring to life the music of Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, resulting in a mesmerizing audio and visual work of public art.
The installation stands at 32-by-32 feet, with a screen that presents ever-shifting visuals that Anadol created over the course of two years using “custom AI algorithms and data-driven processes,” according to a news release from the Kennedy Center.
“This exhibition beautifully bridges the past with the future, exemplifying our mission to connect artistic traditions with innovative technology,” said Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter. “Celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Reach, we are proud to showcase how our campus supports boundary-pushing creativity and technology.”
Before making its U.S. debut in DC, Dvořák Dreams was presented in Prague in 2023. It came to the Kennedy Center on September 4 as part of a collaboration between the Kennedy Center and the 0xCollection, a Switzerland-based new media art initiative.
“As emerging technologies like machine learning continue to shape our lives, this installation aims to present a precedent for synergy between established cultural institutions and artists exploring our digital age,” said Elle Anastasiou, director of the 0xCollection. “It is my sincere hope that Dvořák Dreams will provide new audiences with an experience of the beauty and artistic innovation that thrives at the intersection of cultural legacy and contemporary art.”
Dvořák Dreams is free to view and will be on display until September 24. Viewers can see the installation from 4 p.m. to midnight Mondays through Thursdays and noon to midnight Fridays through Sundays.
An Anniversary Celebration
Dvořák Dreams isn’t the only thing going on at the Reach Plaza this weekend. The Kennedy Center will celebrate the fifth anniversary of the arts campus with a full weekend of events, from September 20 to 22.
On Friday, catch an outdoor screening of Disney’s Coco at dusk.
On Saturday, there will be a celebration of National Dance Day from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., featuring classes, performances, and discussions. Next, there will be a free performance by Orkesta Mendoza at 6 p.m., and a block party with music from 9th Wonder, Rich Medina, and Jahsonic at 8:15 p.m.
On Sunday, there will be chamber music in the Skylight Pavilion at noon and a screening of the film Jamala, Songs of Freedom at 3 p.m.
Feature image of Dvořák Dreams courtesy Kennedy Center and 0xCollection
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