designboom · Creativity & design

Interactive Game Simulates Data Center Cleaning at V&A Museum

The V&A Museum is showcasing 'The Server,' an interactive art installation by Playfool that transforms data center maintenance into a game, inviting visitors to act as cleaners.

The installation uses a real data center vacuum cleaner as a controller, allowing participants to remove 'digital dust' from a sculptural server. This work, commissioned by the V&A's Emerging Designer Commission, draws parallels between the upkeep of data centers and the conservation of museum artifacts, highlighting the essential manual labor involved in both.

Referencing the concept of maintenance art, 'The Server' frames cleaning as a continuous process influenced by evolving conditions and repetitive actions. It encourages reflection on the physical effort underpinning technological advancement and the interconnectedness of humans, machines, and their surroundings.

The project was developed by Playfool, comprising Daniel Coppen and Saki Maruyama, and is displayed at the V&A in London until October 18th, 2026.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.