Some qualities of critical systems

I've been thinking about "critical systems" as a way to describe some of my work (bodyfuck, memsweeper, codescapes).

A critical system is reflexive: it exposes how it works, while it works. It renders its underlying mechanics legible as it operates and gives us vocabulary for reading other systems.

A critical system's form is defined by tensegrity: it is shaped by the tension between capabilities and constraints within it.

A critical system is performative: it is executed; it exists in context and acts in the world.