On the 12th of November, I visited the LUX Exhibition at The Strand in London, along with some of the others in the class. I went there with the intention of enhancing my knowledge and understanding of immersive experiences and how artists are able to connect with their audiences through the senses.
LUX is an exhibition of contemporary media art (Curated by SUUM in collaboration with Fact and 180 Studios), featuring a diverse selection of twelve international artists whose work blurs the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds; creatives working with the latest audio-visual technology to explore the boundaries of interactive, fully immersive art.
Each of the 12 artists featured at the exhibition used unique methods to engage with the senses through the most incredible visual art, motion and sound design. The experience from start to finish felt almost surreal, as if I had walked into another world and it evolved as I passed through each exhibit. Overall the experience was amazing and I learnt something from each of the artists, and I took a lot of photographs and videos but I am going to go over my favourites...
Julianknxx - Black Corporeal (Breathe), 2021
Julianknxx Black Corporeal (Breathe), 2021
This artwork consisted of a video being played on screen which was placed at the end of a walkway, almost like a stage. This video featured a chorus of Women seeing at the head of the church. And down either side of this walkway were a series of screens with each of the woman on it. As one of the singers took a breath, her screen would fade to black and then back in when she resumed singing.
Description: This is a critical examination of the relationship between maternity, and the black psyche. Exploring the idea that our ability to breathe - an act that is continuously challenged by everything from air pollution, stress and anxiety, and societal prejudice - is more then our lungs ability to take in air, but a reflection of the way we live individually and together. Black Corporeal engages with both the physical and metaphysical aspects of breathing and asks f we can reposition ourselves through the extrinsic, the creation of black structures and realities that allow us to breathe, freely.
When standing in front of this exhibit, I was completely entranced by the choir singing. It was beautiful, it ebbed and flowed, had surprising stops and starts, and seemed to echo around me. I was rooted to my spot listening to the soothing sounds of their voices and watching the screens fade in and out as they took their breath. It was truly captivating and emotional, and inspired me to reflect on the meanings and intentions of the artist.
What I found most impressive by this installation was its effect on my body. I felt as though I was forced to breathe on time with of the chorus. Slower, deeper breaths that made me feel calmed and relaxed.
Hito Steyerl - Power Plants, 2019
