RESISTING OPTIMISATION
OSLO, 2026
RESISTING OPTIMISATION is a series of sculptural drawings that explores how algorithmic infrastructures shape identity, visibility and desire within contemporary digital environments. The project responds to the growing influence of AI-driven systems that classify, rank and filter individuals across social media platforms, recommendation systems and digital marketplaces.
Developed through an architectural and computational methodology, the work constructs a visual language that translates the complexity of large-scale algorithmic systems into spatial and material form. Parametric modelling techniques generate dense geometries derived from computational workflows typically used in architectural design. These structures are translated into layered drawings through a collaboration between machine and human processes, using an XY plotting machine and oil paint to produce intricate networks of lines that evoke processes of algorithmic optimisation and data aggregation.
Each drawing is realised on bright-annealed stainless steel panels whose reflective surfaces subtly mirror the viewer. This encounter situates the observer within the visualised system, prompting reflection on how individuals are continuously measured, categorised and evaluated within digital infrastructures. By transforming abstract computational systems into visual and spatial experiences, the project opens new ways of thinking about the cultural and social consequences of AI technologies. The work operates as both artistic research and a critical design tool, inviting dialogue between artists, technologists and the public about how algorithmic systems influence contemporary life and what it might mean to develop tools that allow users to navigate, interrupt – or maybe even resist – the gamified logic of algorithmic optimisation, engaging digital environments with greater agency and authenticity.
Keywords - Human-centred AI, Algorithmic transparency, Responsible technology, AI infrastructures, Platform economies, Algorithmic bias, Digital identity, Human–machine collaboratio, Data visualisation, Computational aesthetics, Speculative design, Critical AI
Developed through an architectural and computational methodology, the work constructs a visual language that translates the complexity of large-scale algorithmic systems into spatial and material form. Parametric modelling techniques generate dense geometries derived from computational workflows typically used in architectural design. These structures are translated into layered drawings through a collaboration between machine and human processes, using an XY plotting machine and oil paint to produce intricate networks of lines that evoke processes of algorithmic optimisation and data aggregation.
Each drawing is realised on bright-annealed stainless steel panels whose reflective surfaces subtly mirror the viewer. This encounter situates the observer within the visualised system, prompting reflection on how individuals are continuously measured, categorised and evaluated within digital infrastructures. By transforming abstract computational systems into visual and spatial experiences, the project opens new ways of thinking about the cultural and social consequences of AI technologies. The work operates as both artistic research and a critical design tool, inviting dialogue between artists, technologists and the public about how algorithmic systems influence contemporary life and what it might mean to develop tools that allow users to navigate, interrupt – or maybe even resist – the gamified logic of algorithmic optimisation, engaging digital environments with greater agency and authenticity.
Keywords - Human-centred AI, Algorithmic transparency, Responsible technology, AI infrastructures, Platform economies, Algorithmic bias, Digital identity, Human–machine collaboratio, Data visualisation, Computational aesthetics, Speculative design, Critical AI
Resisting Optimisation 00–3
Machine and hand-drawn oil paint on Stainless Steel, 16 Tiles
124 x 174cm, Oslo 2026
Installation Photo, Jon Gorospe/SKOG
Resisting Optimisation 02–1
Machine and hand-drawn oil paint on Stainless Steel
14.8 x 21 cm, Oslo 2026
Installation Photo, Jon Gorospe/SKOG
Resisting Optimisation 00-7, 00-1, 00-2, 00-5
Machine and hand-drawn oil paint on Stainless Steel
29.7 × 42cm each, Oslo 2026
Installation Photo, Jon Gorospe/SKOG
Resisting Optimisation 00-3, 00-6, 00-2, 00-7, 00-1
Machine and hand-drawn oil paint on Stainless Steel
(00-7, 00-1, 00-2, 00-5) 29.7 × 42cm each
(00-3) 16 tiles, 124 x 174cm
Oslo 2026
Installation Photo, Jon Gorospe/SKOG
Resisting Optimisation 00–10
Machine and hand-drawn oil paint on Stainless Steel, 16 Tiles
88 x 64 cm, Oslo 2026
Installation Photo, Jon Gorospe/SKOG
SKOG in conversation with Adam Peacock (1:38mins)
Discussing AI-integrated automation of filtering mechanisms in platform cultures, and parametric scripting existing behind RESISTING OPTIMISATION
Video, Ida Kathrine Hansen/SKOG
Discussing AI-integrated automation of filtering mechanisms in platform cultures, and parametric scripting existing behind RESISTING OPTIMISATION
Video, Ida Kathrine Hansen/SKOG
RESISTING OPTIMISATION
Artist, researcher and project lead, Adam Peacock
Curatorial collaboration, Brian Noguera, Kim Gabrielli, Ida Kathrine Hansen
Exhibition partner, SKOG Art Space Oslo
Project research supervision, Dr Emily Rosamond and Dr Scott Wark, Visual Cultures, Goldsmiths, University of London
Curatorial collaboration, Brian Noguera, Kim Gabrielli, Ida Kathrine Hansen
Exhibition partner, SKOG Art Space Oslo
Project research supervision, Dr Emily Rosamond and Dr Scott Wark, Visual Cultures, Goldsmiths, University of London
Support received from, UK Economic and Social Research Council ESRC, South and East Network for Social Sciences SENSS, Visual Cultures, Goldsmiths, University of London, Department of Computing, Goldsmiths, University of London, SKOG Art Space Oslo
SELECTED PROJECT ENGAGEMENT
2026, [Full exhibition], Exhibited at SKOG Art Space, Oslo
2026, [RESISTING OPTIMISATION 00-11], Exhibited at BLEUR Gallery, London
2026, [RESISTING OPTIMISATION 00-11], Exhibited at BLEUR Gallery, London
