As young users traverse through the flurry of open-source pathways, we get bombarded with trends of ‘aesthetic appeal’, how we should actually feel about urban ‘liquid trees’, and determining one’s ‘self-core’. If you’re chronically online, you’ll understand most of the algospeak- the new form of communication created through online memes out of satirical reflection on our daily lives. What this constant stream of information seems to have done to us as people is create fractures in the term/label of identity, thereby our perception and method of self-expression.

The rise of AI has caused further confusion when we try to determine whether what we see on our little rectangle boxes is real or fake, but in a way has also encouraged play in online spheres- the idea to not take anything too seriously and have fun with the output. In my research, I saw a lot of that being forthcoming with the Gen Z user adoption of existential nihilistic beliefs to power what (MØRNING, 2023) calls MetaFantasy. This narrative is driven by our collective bewilderment and anguish, a sense of nihilism with a ‘nothing matters’ attitude in the digital realm, the urge to escape reality, and a desire to experience the fantastical. The ultimate rebirth tool.

“Brands can shift from cultural reflection to cultural creation by embracing fantasy. Fanciful storytelling provides amusement and optimism via subversion”. (MØRNING, 2023)

But how did we get to this point, where realities blurring and increasingly chaotic For You pages have become an average Tuesday? And what comes next for us as a society and the exploration of Self? ‘Accelerationism in Modern Society’ delves into these questions through the temporal components of Anterior (Past), Coeval (Present), and Tomorrow (Future)- where I explore how the acceleration of online culture influences self exploration through fluid, digital identities.

Finally, I offer you my baby “Cybernatural Synergy”- an editorial aiming to personify the battle between nature and AI/emerging tech, and their eventual blend into a symbiotic relationship. What I believe to be the only possibility of a stable society, for a logic of future coexistence.

I had the pleasure of yapping (talking) to 8 industry professionals from all walks of life: philosophers, MR artists, musicians, designers, researchers, and a creative collective. I can’t wait for you to meet them all:)

APEX is about You.

It's an exploration of what is going on with and around You. It explores the intersection of digital culture, consumer behaviour, and societal trends, challenging the traditional narratives and creating a space for new perspectives and understandings.

APEX is a pinnacle, a climax point that we as a society are reaching together. We’re on the verge of a new form of life, and whether its positive or negative right now is looking really 50/50. In APEX, I’ve chosen to majorly look at it through a positive lens. I love being a sunny nihilist.

From my Meta to Yours,

AE

©️ Andrea Evgenieva, 2024. All rights reserved. Neither this book, nor any of the images from editorial ‘Cybernatural Synergy’ may be sold or reproduced in any form without permission.