An exhibition exploring the intersection of human emotions and technology, titled “Machines of Empathy,” will be held at the Mikhailovsky Castle in St. Petersburg from June 4 to July 26, 2025. The exhibition is a master’s degree diploma presentation by ITMO University students.

Curated by Olga Vad, known for the “Hydra” exhibition at Sevkabel Port, “Machines of Empathy” delves into the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. The central theme revolves around the question of empathy in an era dominated by technological advancement.

The exhibition, hosted at the SRM site, investigates whether machines can not only mimic human feelings but also amplify them. Olga Vad emphasizes how technology provides new avenues for empathy, challenging conventional notions about machines and fostering discussions about care and perception.

Thirteen projects at the nexus of science, technology, and art will be showcased. Visitors can interact with a robotic hive that reacts to human breath and movement, communicate with mushrooms through electrical signals, and explore virtual reality applications in gardening.

The “Machines of Empathy” exhibition will take place in the Western Pavilion of the Mikhailovsky Castle (8 Inzhenernaya Street). Admission is by session, and further details are available on the Russian Museum website. The exhibition is open to all ages (0+), with art mediations tailored for individuals aged 12 and above. An extensive parallel program will accompany the exhibition; details are available on the website.