The term “Machine Wilderness” was coined by cultural geographer Ronald Horvath in the 1960s to describe the transformation of the landscape of the American Southwest caused by the automobile. He also used the term “Machine Space” to describe land that is designed for cars rather than humans. For ISEA2012, we are reclaiming the term “Machine Wilderness” to represent the potential for humans, animals and machines to coexist in a positive, sustainable future. We encourage proposals from artists, presenters and organizations that attempt to define wilderness and our place in it in the 21st century. The subject matter of Machine Wilderness is focused specifically on the role of art, science and technology in re-envisioning our relationship to nature.
