Camera surveillance has long been ubiquitous in train stations, city centers, and shopping malls. Increasingly, such systems rely on AI-powered algorithms to detect supposedly “deviant behavior.” But what does deviation actually mean when it is defined algorithmically? Perplexity examines this change of perspective with a combination of surveillance camera, computer, and laser projectors. The system continuously trains itself on the movements of people in the room, simulates their most likely paths, and projects these as traces of light directly in front of their feet. The reversal is crucial: the system predicts what is normal instead of looking for what is conspicuous. Deviation occurs when reality and simulation no longer match. The algorithm’s error thus becomes a measure of suspicion. Perplexity reveals the extent to which routines shape the background of the public sphere, against which every deviation stands out. By confronting visitors with their predicted movements, the work invites them to question ingrained paths and rethink the relationship between observers and the observed. NEXT LEVEL presents Perplexity as an artistic reflection on surveillance, prediction, and the subtle influence of algorithms on everyday movements.
Perplexity
An installation about surveillance, prediction, and movement patterns.
Ruben van de Ven is a media artist based in Utrecht and a PhD candidate at the Institute of Political Science, Leiden University. He explores algorithmic politics through media art, computer programming, and academic work; currently, he focuses on surveillance algorithms that classify human gaits and gestures. His particular interest lies in the reciprocal relationship between the algorithm and the individual, as the individual becomes both the subject and input of the machine learning process. Ruben is a graduate of the Master’s program in Media Design at the Piet Zwart Institute in Rotterdam. His work and research have been presented at exhibitions and academic conferences, including V2_ in Rotterdam, ZKM in Karlsruhe, MuseumsQuartier in Vienna, State Festival in Berlin, Codes & Modes in New York City, Creativity & Cognition/ArtScience Museum in Singapore. His writings are published by the Institute of Network Cultures and various journals.
Creative Coding Utrecht (CCU) is a non-profit platform for digital creativity based in Utrecht. We support artistic research, talent development, and interdisciplinary collaboration at the intersection of art, technology, and society. Our activities range from public programs and labs to residencies and educational projects – always rooted in experimentation, accessibility, and community building. As a Zoöp (zoop.earth), CCU is committed to integrating more-than-human perspectives into creative practice. This research explores how artistic and technological tools can help us perceive, connect with, and care for the living world – not only thematically, but also structurally, in the ways we create and collaborate.