The term "rhizome," which was first introduced into philosophical discourse by the influential French philosopher Gilles Deleuze, literally describes the horizontal, branching stems of certain types of plants that grow underground. However, Deleuze imbued this term with a much deeper significance, positing that it encapsulates one of the defining characteristics of the postmodern condition. This multifaceted concept of rhizome can be intriguingly paralleled with the realm of interactive art, which has gained prominence in recent years as a transformative mode of expression. Interactive art refers to a distinctive mode of presenting a work where audience members are invited to assume an active role as creators rather than passive observers. In an interactive performance setting, for instance, while the director establishes initial conditions that set the stage for engagement—much like planting seeds in fertile ground—they do not impose a rigid map dictating how the performance will unfold. This fluidity mirrors the nature of a rhizome itself: decentralized and non-hierarchical. Similarly, audience behavior within such interactive pieces is inherently rhizomatic; each participant brings their own unique interpretations and insights to their engagement with the artwork. As individuals share their perspectives with one another—like branches sprouting from a common root—they generate a rich tapestry of meanings and interpretations that proliferate throughout the duration of the work. The potential for transformation in interactive art aligns beautifully with Deleuze's notion of becoming. This ongoing process not only enriches the experience of the artwork but also highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within a shared creative endeavor. In this way, interactive art becomes a living entity, constantly in flux, challenging traditional notions of authorship and inviting a more collaborative approach to art-making. The rhizomatic structure of these works emphasizes the importance of each participant's role, suggesting that the collective experience can yield new understandings and insights that go beyond the original intentions of the artist.
Shayani Majd D. Studying the Rhizomatic Concept From Gilles Deleuze's Perspective in Interactive Performance Directing. 3 2025; 4 (7) : 4 URL: http://art-studies.ir/article-1-154-en.html