EightOS bodymind operating system

Open-source Operating System for the Bodymind.

EightOS /#eightos/ is the open-source bodymind operating system. In our practice we study how we can use physical movement to better understand the dynamics of interaction and to then scale this understanding into other contexts. We also explore the aesthetic, ethical, and scientific implications of this approach.

At the core of EightOS is a set of principles — adaptivity, variability, confluence, integrity, resilience, modularity — that we experiment with and implement into the everyday. In our work we combine complex systems and network science, technology, music, contemporary dance, Systema martial art, and artistic practices to cultivate a new kind of aesth/et(h)ics based on ecological interaction, confluence and evolutionary creative flow.

Using the agile approach we develop the education technology based on embodied understanding, bringing the body back into the equation in this digital age. We explore the behavioral and organizational patterns that emerge as a result of this practice and how it can be implemented in other contexts outside of the purely physical domain. We also study and document the effects and the implications of this approach as part of our ongoing research both in the scientific and in the artistic realms.

Latest Updates and News

Swarm Formations and Choreographies

Swarm formations are very common to find in nature. They are based on a few simple rules that lead to complex behaviors. Taking as inspiration the studies that have been done on swarms in biology and for military applications we demonstrate how these principles could be used to choreograph collective actions.

Chaotic Fractal Movement Variability

A healthy, natural, and adaptive movement has fractal dynamics. As soon as intention or external disturbances kick in, this dynamic changes, and the movement becomes more artificial and less adaptive. Is it possible to modulate fractal dynamics on purpose, and what would be the practical and aesthetic implications? Natural Movement, Fractals, and Chaos Studies…

Transfer Package: From Learning to Practice

The “transfer learning” approach used in a therapy setting can be very useful when applied to learning the new skills and particularly the part where they have to be implemented into the real-life context. We demonstrate how we use this approach in the EightOS setting to facilitate knowledge transfer between different contexts and disciplines.

The Aesthetics of Tension and Release

An interplay of tension and release as an aesthetic expression of life principles. How we can play with this dynamics and reflect the important aspects of physical movement both on the individual and the collective levels.

Co-Isolated Multiplicities at Milano Triennale

The notion of co-isolated associations was introduced by Peter Sloterdijk as a way of describing the entities that are connected and yet maintain their boundaries. They can get influenced from the outside and can also influence the outside. Together, the entities form a co-isolated multiplicity, which in itself exhibits a similar constant dance of resilience…

Pan-Algorithmic Resistance Strategies

In the world that is increasingly governed by algorithms, the notion of both an individual and a collective agency is being eroded. It's very likely that what you do is not really your own choice even if you are made to believe so. Thanks to the big data surveillance our actions become easily predictable. The…

Fluidity at Bundeskunsthalle

In the frame of the State of the Arts Exhibition we presented EightOS bodymind operating system as a methodology and a practice for activating the fluid modality in a public space.

Coronavirus as a Sociopolitical Exploitation Mechanism

In this analysis, we look into the features of Coronavirus dynamics and explore the mechanisms of their effect on society.

Learn more about EightOS:

The best way to experience EightOS is to join one of our online or offline activation programs, which are hosted several times a year in different locations around the world. These programs include physical body and movement practice, organizational behavior seminars, and creative work with various digital tools, sound and visualization (see examples).

Level 1: Research Lab

Request an invitation to join a research lab session of EightOS (usually 1 to 2 hours long) and experience a certain aspect of the practice. We have both online and offline events, which usually take the shape of a workshop where we mix both theory and practice / physical movement. We host multiple events throughout the year around the world, so when you sign up you will receive the full schedule for both online and offline events available. If the dates do not suit you, you can cancel and get a refund.

Join a Demo Session

Level 2: Activation Program

If Level 1 is a demo version of EightOS software, then Level 2 is a full activation license. It is usually comprised of several sessions with a certain narrative (about 12 hours long in total), combining physical body practice, research, and creative work. You also get access to special training materials, digital and artistic software and hardware tools we created to facilitate EightOS practice in other contexts. You will have a chance to learn and enhance your embodied understanding of EightOS approach and integrate it into your daily practice.

You can join one of the four sessions that we host every year. The number of places is limited, so it’s better to get your pass early. Your ticket is refundable and transferable, so you can return it or give it to somebody else.

Level 3: Custom Session

We can also organize custom-made ∞OS experiences for a specific contexts. It can be a presentation, a performance, a workshop, a participatory experience or any other event. You can see reports from our previous events or check the examples of the modules that we can provide. Send us a message to receive more information.

You can also join the custom sessions as a participant, in which case we advise you to apply for the Level 1 or Level 2 as you will then be informed about the external events.

∞OS Methodology: A New Way of Learning

Metaphor is a powerful tool that helps us understand things better. The core of ∞OS approach to learning is to offer a direct experience of a metaphor on the physical level. This provides a much more efficient pathway for information and ensures that it is incorporated on the level of reflexes, using the most efficient neural network there is: our bodymind. We also make use of dynamical systems theory and network science, as well as the various techniques and tools from agile development to create an adaptive, iterative, robust, sustainable and creative approach to learning. To make sure that our approach has practical implications we ensure that ∞OS is interoperable: applicable in any context, beyond the realm of the physical, as well as able to function together with other practices.

Procedures: Implement ∞OS Principles into Real Life

∞OS is a portable practice, you can apply it in any context: from fitness and self-defense, to intersubjective relations, business, and politics. Our set of principles helps you see tensions as opportunities and our procedures offer concrete formulas you can apply to reach your objectives. Choose the procedure below to see how ∞OS can be useful for you, depending on the situation you’re in.