“Crosstalk” is instantly recognizable as an ippsketch artwork, incorporating elements that have come to define his high effort minimalism. The grid, bold ROYGBP colors, and primary forms construct a story of interconnectedness. There are 12 distinct shapes, each symbolizing an artist from the exhibition. They are unique yet connected, some close while others are set apart. The lines underpinning the connection between forms extend out of the artwork to the outside world, hinting at the external resources and knowledge pulled into the group. The project originally had texture and light but these were stripped away in an effort to say as much as possible with as little as possible. ippsketch referenced both circuit boards and wooden bead maze toys while constructing this work, showcasing his balance of an engineer’s execution with a playful spirit.
“N=12 is an experiment in building intentional community, with 12 artists collaborating across seven time zones. Contemporary computer-based artists create their work while connected to an effectively infinite network of information. This affords artists the capacity for infinite input and collaboration, leaving them to distill these disparate connections and experiences into their artwork. Distinctly, the computer artist’s principal tool for creation is also a means for connection. This exhibition leans into the inherent proximity of computer users by explicitly asking 12 artists to create work while in constant dialogue with one another. These artists convened and collaborated online over several months, sharing their code and artistic processes while fostering a co-creative microcosm enriched by weekly meetings, aesthetic critiques, code reviews, and vibrant discussion.” — Aaron Penne
