Generative Art Timeline · Chapter 7: Net Era (1990s)
1993
do it Concept and Catalogue Released

All about instruction-based generative art, do it began in 1993 as a conversation and a book of instructions from twelve artists, from which the exhibitions grew. Initiated by Hans Ulrich Obrist in conversation with artists Christian Boltanski and Bertrand Lavier, do it explores the interpretive role of the viewer in generative art, transcending traditional notions of static displays. Each venue hosted unique interpretations, blurring lines between art and daily life. Do it championed audience involvement, fostering dynamic, ever-changing experiences. Unlike conventional exhibitions, it prioritized human interaction over physical artifacts, inviting diverse renditions that engaged with site specificity.
Text by Peter Bauman. Generative Art Timeline, Le Random.
Sources
People
Bertrand Lavier, Christian Boltanski, Hans Ulrich Obrist
Movements
generative art, Material Generative Art, Rules-Based Art, instruction art
Filed under
- Ideas
- audience participation, conceptual art, dematerialization, generative art, Material Generative Art, Participatory Art, Rules-Based Art, site specificity
- People
- Bertrand Lavier, Christian Boltanski, Hans Ulrich Obrist
- Works
- do it
- Other subjects
- Lavier
Related moments
Echoes across time
- 2010 · The Artist Is Present by Marina Abramovic at MoMA
- 1970 · Information exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art
- 1963 · Henry Flynt Coins Concept Art
Le Random editorials
- Hans Ulrich Obrist on Exhibitions as Living Organisms, Peter Bauman, September 1, 2025
Le Random podcast
- Timeline Ch 7—Net Era (1990s) with Auriea Harvey, Joshua Davis, LIA, Scott Draves & Vuk Ćosić — listen with transcript on Le Random (11 Apr 2024, 77 min). Chapter 7’s episode. Apple Podcasts · Spotify