What role does technology—such as geoengineering—play in addressing climate change, and can we trust its promises as the ultimate problem solver? How does the aesthetic of technology influence our belief and acceptance? «CLYMERA Inc.» is a conceptual project that explores these questions through photography, design and experimental engineering. It highlights the blurred line between techno-optimism and scientific imagination. In this keynote, Rickli will present insights into his latest project and its critical framing.
Since 2011, Marcel Rickli (*1986) has been exploring the ways in which humanity is fundamentally altering the planet through an ongoing series of photographic field studies and conceptual art. His practice examines the interplay between humans and technology, as well as the absurdities of modern existence, forming the leitmotif of his work. As a transdisciplinary artist, Rickli combines photography and conceptual art to critically engage with humanity’s complex role in the Anthropocene. In his previous work, such as «AMBIVALENT» (2017–18), Rickli turned his lens to renewable energy, portraying massive wind farms and solar power plants that could not be more futuristic as symbols of both hope and contradiction in the fight against climate change. His most recent and extensive project, «AEON» (2018–ongoing), addresses the immense challenge of protecting future generations from the dangers of radioactive nuclear waste. Situated at the intersection of arts & science, «AEON» explores how societies can communicate life-threatening risks across deep time and raises critical questions about humanity’s ability to endure as a species. Rickli’s work encapsulates an epoch in which humanity has become the dominant force shaping Earth’s systems. His transdisciplinary approach invites reflection on our impact on the planet and the responsibilities we hold in navigating the complexities of the Anthropocene.
Keynote speaker:
Marcel Rickli
When?
2 October 2025
1:00 to 1:30 pm
Where?
Kino Toni [3.G02, level 3]
Toni-Areal
Zurich University of the Arts
Partner:
artists-in-labs program
Website:
marcelrickli.com
Ticket:
Get your free ticket here
