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The video works follow human-animal hybrids, Batperson and Wolfman, at nighttime in the city. The characters in the videos, both referring to popular culture, are antiheroes who fight against everyday cahallenges in order to survive.
Wolfman differs from the native population due to his appearance, and his integration is hindered by the latent hatred of wolves within the society.
The man equipped with the senses of a bat navigates with the help of a bat simulator helmet which was first created at the wearable electronics course at the Aalto University’s Media Lab. The helmet has an ultrasonic sensor, similar to a bat’s echolocation system, as well as a microprocessor and a speaker. The individual wearing the helmet hears the soundscape of the surrounding space created by the sensor data. In spite of his limitations, Batperson finds a way to survive in the city.
The protagonists’ way to survive in the city parallels the experiences of those in a weaker position, those struggling with discrimination and sensory limitations. The videos depict the city as a harsh environment, as opposed to nature, and the electronic soundscapes composed by Rasmus Hedlund strengthens the atmosphere.

Date: 13.05-12.07.2019

Venue: M8 Art Space, Maarintie 8, Otaniemi Espoo

Paula Lehtonen is a Helsinki-based media artist who is interested in observing the relationships between humans, nature and technology. Lehtonen completed her BA in Fine Arts at the Tampere University of Applied Sciences and received her MA degree from Aalto University School of Art and Design, Media Laboratory. Her works have been exhibited in several exhibition venues such as Heino gallery, Lux Helsinki and Kumu Art Museum. Lehtonen also works as a video designer in theatres and as a VJ at clubs and gigs.

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Curated by Bilge Hasdemir, Aalto University, bilge.hasdemir@aalto.fi