The ancient site of Delphi will host a high-tech tribute to prophecy and knowledge as artist Charles Sandison unveils a large-scale installation titled "The Garden of Pythia" on April 9, during the Delphi Economic Forum.
Commissioned by the Polygreen Culture & Art Initiative (PCAI), the work transforms the site of the “pi” – the Global Center for Circular Economy and Culture – into a living artwork where artificial intelligence, mythology, and environmental data converge. Inspired by the Delphic Oracle and the temple of Apollo, the installation uses sensors, projection mapping, and real-time inputs to create a dynamic, evolving environment.
“'The Garden of Pythia' is a fictional place, partly set on a mountainside in ancient Greece and partly within the circuitry of my computer,” said Mr. Sandison.
The work fuses historical texts, fragments of ancient monuments, and Delphic inscriptions with data from the local flora, fauna, and geology.
The projections respond to ambient light and temperature, mirroring the shifting rhythms of nature.
During his visit to the archaeological site, Mr. Sandison drew parallels between the oracle’s prophetic function and modern artificial intelligence systems, describing Delphi as a precursor to institutions like CERN — a space for deciphering complexity and anticipating the future.
“Visitors will realize that the answers we seek from artificial intelligence are not so different from those once whispered by the Pythia,” Mr. Sandison said.
Mr. Athanasios Polychronopoulos, CEO of Polygreen and founder of PCAI, called the commission a landmark for both environmental advocacy and cultural expression.
“The project honors Delphi’s legacy while aligning with our environmental mission,” he said. “Its unveiling at the Forum reflects our shared commitment to art, nature, and innovation.”
Ms. Kika Kyriakakou, PCAI’s artistic director, said the installation represents Mr. Sandison’s sculptural approach to moving images and data, marrying digital language with ecological and humanistic themes.
Sound artist Kostadis Michail created an original audio installation to complement the visual work, further immersing visitors in this hybrid realm of myth and machine.
The exhibition opens at 8 p.m. on April 9, with free public access on the opening day.
By Katerina Poulopoulou