The Brain's Interconnected Universe

For "Limbic Vortex”, I decided to probe more deeply into one specific example of these subnetworks: the brain's neuronal circuitry and especially the limbic system. A noteworthy aspect from a conceptual perspective is the use of color palettes named after different neurotransmitters. As these chemicals transmit messages between neurons, they facilitate the web of connections that define our thoughts, emotions, and actions. In the same way, the universe itself is a vast network of interconnected systems and processes, all working in harmony to create the reality we experience.

A Macrocosmic Perspective

While "Limbic Vortex" explores the brain's connections on a microcosmic level, "Breeding Grounds" can be viewed as the “Big Bang” of this narrative and takes a more macroscopic view. The central concept is the interconnectedness of all things, which i demonstrated by drawing comparisons between the brain, social networks, galaxy clusters, and the universe as a whole. In doing so, "Breeding Grounds" posits that the same principles that govern the functioning of the human brain are also at play in the broader cosmos. If you're interested in learning more about the commonalities between these systems, I recommend reading this article.

The Connections

To emphasize this theme of interconnectedness and similarities, I’ve incorporated visual elements from "Breeding Grounds”, including clusters of lines that converge at specific nodes on the canvas, overlaying them to produce complex structures, and utilizing some of its color palettes. This integration of visual motifs serves to link the two works within a shared narrative.

Moreover, the emotional aspect of "Limbic Vortex" is accentuated by including technical elements and color palettes from my previous projects, “asunder" and "Blockaden”. By drawing upon these deeply personal projects, I’ve sought to imbue "Limbic Vortex" with an additional emotional layer, underscoring the limbic system's primary function of regulating emotions.

Integrating diverse facets of my earlier projects, I aimed to underscore a further layer of linkage within my body of work. "Limbic Vortex" attests to the all-encompassing truth that our being is shaped by the elaborate interconnections among seemingly disconnected systems. It acts as a cue, reminding us of our position within the vastness of the universe, tied together by the fragile strands of connection that mold our shared experiences.

Navigating through the parameter space

The parameters might be confusing without proper context, so I created a little guide. It's important to note that three distinct elements, the hash, the parameters and the interplay of the two, determine the appearance of your final output.

The basic concept is that although you have complete control over the parameters, you do not have control over the hash of your final output, on which other "hidden" parameters depend, just as you're used to from the usual mint workflow. However, I believe that if we have complete control over the final output, then the overall appeal may diminish rapidly, not only for a specific collection. Therefore, I made a last-minute decision to allow for some degree of randomization in the final output (as i believe was the original vision of the fx team for params). IMO, params should be seen as a tool that enables collectors to design their outputs at a fundamental level, while still preserving an element of unpredictability in the outcome.

I've created a playlist featuring the songs that I frequently listened to during the development, and arranged them in a cohesive and fluid manner. Try to give it a listen while you tweak the parameters :)

If something is unclear or you have technical questions, please reach out to me. Also, feel free to share any interesting discoveries you made while tweaking the params :)