What is Connectionism

“Memory Association Machine” (also known as “Self-Other Organizing Structure #1”) is the first prototype in a series of site-specific responsive installations inspired by cognitive processes. The artist provides a mechanism that allows the structure of the artwork to change in response to continuous stimulus from its context. Context is defined as those parameters of the environment that are perceivable by the system and make its place in space and time unique. “Memory Association Machine” relates itself to its context using three primary processes: perception, the integration of sensor data into a field of experience, and the free-association through that field. “Memory Association Machine” perceives through a video camera, integrates using a Kohonen Self-Organizing Map, and free-associates through an implementation of Liane M. Gabora’s model of memory and creativity.