The illusion of usability -- perception, simulation and culture: Ben Bogart at TEDxMünchenSalon

Ben Bogart is an artist working in installation, audio-visual improvisation and software development. His installations create content live in response to their sensed environment. He works in an Open Source context and makes all the software he develops, that is of general use, available under the GPL. Physical modeling, chaos, feedback systems, evolutionary algorithms and artificial intelligence have been used to inform and engage in his creative process. Ben holds a Masters of Science in Interactive Arts and Technology from Simon Fraser University. He is currently a PhD candidate in the School of Interactive Art and Technology where he is developing an Integrative Theory of cognitive and neurological mechanisms of perception, mental imagery, mind-wandering and dreaming. This cognitive framework is manifest in a computational model and site-specific and generative artwork: A Machine that Dreams.
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)