Audience members congregated around four concrete columns wrapped in dense mesh material. A performer within pushed against these makeshift walls, while vibrant projections informed viewers that this was an Artificial Intelligence being – one that they, the audience, had helped create. Projections shifted indicating an energy collapse, concluding the first act of the Redes Neuronales – Workshop #20 public presentation. What audiences didn’t see was the weeks of development that went into this installation, co-created by M.F.A. candidate Daniel Ruiz Bustos. We spoke with Ruiz Bustos about attending La Fura dels Baus’ art and science workshop and collaborating with artists and researchers from around the world.
The Redes Neuronales workshop was co-led by Fundación Épica, a research branch of theatre company La Fura dels Baus that fosters collaboration between the arts and sciences. Workshop #20 focused on investigating neural networks, exploring the similarities and differences between the neural networks within the human brain and those created for A.I. 30 artists from around the world were awarded scholarships and invited to Barcelona to take part in Redes Neuronales. Neuroscientists and engineers shared their research through online sessions, which artists then used as inspiration when crafting their final public presentations. “It’s challenging to capture the whole experience in just a few words because it was so intensely wonderful,” Ruiz Bustos shared.
Give us a general overview of your work with Workshop #20 – Redes Neuronales. What was your role in this workshop?
Ruiz Bustos: I had two roles in the workshop. First, as a participant, I engaged in various scientific and technological experiments. Second, as a creative contributor, I embraced the method of creation used by La Fura dels Baus, where roles are fluid. My team and I aimed to answer the question: How does the physicality of A.I. look?
What was it like working with artists and researchers from various disciplines?
Ruiz Bustos: The process was exhilarating. We learned not only from La Fura dels Baus founders (Pep Gatell, Miki Espuma, Alex Ollé, Nadla Fernández, Tatín Revenga) but also from experts in neuroscience and artificial intelligence. The participants, from diverse fields like acting, directing, acrobatics, music and interactive media, enriched the experience immensely.
My group consisted of Chiara (Italian dancer), Neftaly (Mexican actor), Simón (Argentinian actor and lighting technician), Alicia (Spanish architect), Guille (Spanish audio designer) and me (Mexican scenic designer).
What did a typical day look like once you were in Barcelona working on this project?
Ruiz Bustos: Our day started at 10:00 a.m. with a master class from a scientist or technologist, followed by physical training with Tatín Revenga. Afterward, we had discussions or another master class until lunch at 2:00 p.m. From 3:30 to 6:00 p.m., we worked on team creations, and from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., we showcased our progress. The evenings were spent sharing ideas in a bar or restaurant, often working late into the night. It was intense but incredibly rewarding.
What was your favorite part about working on this project with Fundación Épica La Fura dels Baus?
Ruiz Bustos: Learning from La Fura dels Baus’ creative method was invaluable. Their approach emphasizes creation through action rather than analysis, a concept I now hold dear: “The excess of analysis generates paralysis.” Additionally, the camaraderie and exchanges with other participants were profoundly impactful.
What did being selected for this workshop mean to you?
Ruiz Bustos: Having admired La Fura dels Baus for over 20 years, working with them was a dream come true, especially as it aligns closely with my thesis project on creating through body and actions. Being selected and collaborating with them directly, without hierarchical barriers, was truly spectacular.
Learn more about Daniel Ruiz Bustos’ work at danrubu.com/
