On May 19, 2025, the University of Exeter’s  Centre for the Study of the Lifesciences (Egenis) and the Ethical Data Initiative hosted the UK premiere of the innovative short film Data Shadows. The film is an exciting collaboration between Cornwall-based artist Jacob Van Der Beugle, scientific philosopher Sabina Leonelli, filmmaker Oliver Page and composer Lucy Page. The event intersected the realms of art, science, and philosophy, inviting participants to reconsider the implications of data in an increasingly digital world.

The film Data Shadows seeks to change our perspective on data from viewing it as static, lifeless information to understanding it as a dynamic entity shaped by human interaction with the natural world. By personifying data and showcasing its evolution, the film highlights how information affects various aspects of our lives, including societal norms, environmental conditions, and decision-making processes.

This premiere not only showcased the film but also served as a platform for rich dialogue among experts and community members. The event opened with a welcome from Adam Toon, Director of the Egenis Centre, followed by a chance to watch the film. Following the screening, attendees participated in a lively panel discussion featuring two of the creators, Van Der Beugle and Leonelli, and Stephan Guttinger, lecturer in Philosophy of Data and Data Ethics at the University of Exeter and the Ethical Data Initiative’s UK Head of Research. The discussion gave the audience an opportunity to delve deeper into the film’s themes and pose questions to the creators.

Jacob Van Der Beugle opened the discussion by sharing the artistic vision behind Data Shadows, advocating for its perception as living entities rather than mere statistics. Utilising materials such as clay and concrete, his approach was designed to evoke a tangible experience of data’s journey, making abstract concepts more relatable and alive.

Sabina Leonelli addressed the ethical implications surrounding datafication—the transformation of aspects of human life into data, examining the challenges that arise from this process. Leonelli’s insights encouraged attendees to reflect on the importance of ethical frameworks when engaging with data.

Stephan Guttinger further elaborated on the film’s relevance in discussions about data reliability and trustworthiness. He underscored the necessity for responsible data practices that take ethical considerations into account, ensuring that advancements in technology prioritise the public good.

The engaging discussions that unfolded during the reception allowed participants to share ideas informally, reinforcing the communal aspect of the event. As attendees mingled and exchanged thoughts, the themes raised during the panel continued to resonate: How do we navigate the ethical landscape of data in our lives? What value do we assign to our data, and how does it influence our interactions with the world around us? This premiere not only showcased the cinematic artistry of Data Shadows but also served as a basis for crucial conversations around the evolving role of data in society, encouraging all participants to reflect on their perspectives and responsibilities in this digital age.

Further information about the film, including excerpts and trailers, is available at: https://opensciencestudies.eu/datashadowsfilm/