THE END OF YOU

THE END OF YOU was the culmination of a year-long collaboration between Gray Area and Gaian Systems, with support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, to explore the potential of immersive art for social impact through the Experiential Space Research Lab. The open call for participation invited artists to propose novel experiences to cultivate planetary thinking. The End Of You was on view at Gray Area from February 7 — March 1, 2020.

THE END OF YOU  blurs the boundary between “humans” and “nature.” Designed to both inspire and provoke, the exhibition goes beyond spectacle to create experiences that integrate our sense of self into an interconnected whole. It personalizes our relationship with the planet, inspiring visitors to reimagine what's possible by demonstrating the potential of immersive art as a means for understanding the world in new ways.

The experience featured seven dynamic room-scale artworks, each presenting a unique perspective on the relationship between individuals and Earth’s web of life. To create fully immersive experiences, the artists use cutting-edge technologies including projection mapping, spatialized audio, and interactive audience sensors. The installations include architectural spaces illustrating the effects of human impact on the environment, a surround cinema exploring interconnected ecologies, and a media archive introducing the world of non-human persons.

Role

I managed the development of The End of You, our extended run immersive art exhibition. I helped develop the exhibition concept, open call, and curated the team of artists along with fellow partners in the Experiential Space Research Lab. I was the designer of the artist curriculum for the lab, as well as the lead designer and the producer of the invite only, immersive art symposium we had as part of the 2019 Gray Area Festival. For that show I did everything from designing motion graphics, wiring plans, to soldiering hundreds of LEDs, to sewing fabric screens and even making sure everyone working on the show got fed. 

Process

Curriculum Plan

As the artists commence their projects, they will build mentoring relationships with experts in the fields of experience design, and further their investigation and professional training through a curriculum rich with workshops and mentorship from fellow scholars. The six month Research Lab will cover Curatorial, Operations & Facilitation, and Business & Marketing Strategies to equip artists with the knowledge and experience to build the scaffolding for an immersive arts practice. 

Development Model

Through the program, artists will develop, prototype, and produce experiential installations, culminating in a public exhibition at Gray Area’s Grand Theater. Together with Gray Area, they will explore how an experience-based ticketing model can provide an additional revenue channel for artists, seeking a sustainable framework for practicing media artists. With this deeper understanding, Gray Area will produce a comprehensive playbook on supporting immersive artists and critically engaged, creative work.