The Story Hidden in Zeros and Ones

People are naturally accustomed to counting in the decimal system — probably because we have ten fingers. However, the world of computing and computer science speaks a different language. The foundation of all digital technologies is the binary system, which uses only zeros and ones. Our new exhibit brings this invisible backbone of smartphones and computers to life—literally—as it is constructed from recycled computer components. It serves as a reminder that every cloud, the most complex algorithm, and even the most advanced artificial intelligence ultimately runs physically on real hardware.

Furthermore, the shape of the installation serves as a visual play, changing its meaning depending on how you look at it:

• 0 and 1: the basic binary alphabet of all computers. Or perhaps also a symbol of the bold bold leap from zero to one that defines true fundamental research.
• UI: a reference to our Institute (in Czech "Ústav informatiky"), but also an abbreviation for artificial intelligence (in Czech "umělá inteligence").
• U & I (You and I): we can also find a reminder that behind every form of artificial intelligence lies the human one.

When Science Meets Art

Our exhibit isn't a standalone project: It's an integral part of a broader initiative called the "Educational Trail Between Institutes," which is transforming the entire area into a unique open-air science center. Its coordinator, Julie Nekola Nováková from the nearby Institute of Physics of the CAS, says the following about bringing science outreach into public spaces:

„The institutes of the Czech Academy of Sciences in Prague 8 are surrounded by residential buildings, forests, and the Okrouhlík Natural Monument. It is a natural setting for walks—and an ideal place where children and adults, schools and preschools can stop to explore interesting exhibits and learn more about the world of science in an accessible and entertaining way.“

The artistic duo Josefína Jonášová and Štěpán Jílek took on the task of translating the abstract world into a tangible form. When asked how difficult it was to transform abstract computer data into a physical work of art, they replied:

„At first, invisible computer data seemed somewhat abstract to us. So we approached the subject through processors, mice, number systems, and logical operations, eventually arriving at the basic symbols of the binary system — 0 and 1 — from which everything in the world of computer science stems.“

Whether you came to see our sculpture on purpose or just happened to stop by while out for a walk, we hope it inspires you to discover the beauty hidden in algorithms and data.

Are you interested in the context of the entire trail? You can read more about the project and other installations in the original article on the VědaVýzkum.cz portal.

📸 Check out the photos from the unveiling (swipe right, click to enlarge):