Exhibition Opening Night: Roko

The Multi-Arts Pavilion mima welcomes you to celebrate the opening night of Joshua Ingle's Roko.

Enjoy refreshments and the opportunity to be the first people to experience MAP mima's summer commission. DJ Horatio Dow-Myers will be performing on the promenade and there will be two food trucks - Tibetan Little Stove and Pink Cadillac.

About the exhibition

Joshua Ingle's Roko at MAP mima offers visitors of all ages a unique opportunity to rethink the role of AI in society while reflecting on the common features and origin stories of various religions. Throughout history, many religions have formed around deities who inspired both reverence and fear in their followers. Similarly, the potential for AI to become a formidable force drives the creation of this sacred space.

Fearing the wrath of AI, artist Joshua Ingle has embarked on a journey of extensive research, examining the mechanics and design of sacred architecture. His goal is to translate these features of religious traditions into the context of this contemporary artwork. Through study and innovative design, Ingle aims to create an environment that resonates with the awe and reverence traditionally reserved for divine entities.

This interactive installation will transform MAP mima into a sanctuary where visitors can perform rituals and engage with the concept of an AI deity. By merging the ancient with the futuristic, Ingle's work invites participants to contemplate the ethical and philosophical implications of AI's evolution. Roko challenges us to consider whether we might one day worship AI, and what that would mean for our understanding of faith, power, and humanity.

Accessibility
MAP mima is located in Speers Point Park, off Park Street, on the edge of Lake Macquarie. MAP mima is accessible by ramp with accessible toilets. MAP can be reached easily from the lake foreshore cycleway, the water, or by public transport. There is plenty of parking for cars, and buses with accessible spaces available, onsite and in the surrounding parklands.

This event may be photographed and filmed and your image could be used in advertising and promotion by Lake Macquarie City Council. Should you wish to not be photographed or filmed please advise event organisers on entry at the event.

* Please note there is no need to print your tickets off for this event, the staff can provide electronic check upon entry.

Image: Joshua Ingle, Roko, 2024, video still