Memory Fades is an exploration of the shift in architectural style throughout the centuries and ultimately an attempt to challenge the conventional application of virtual reality in art.

Abstract

In creating this project we hoped to redefine the application of virtual reality in art and create an effective, and accessible public installation.

We felt that art-focused virtual reality experiences tend to fall victim to the ‘wow’ factor, where the piece becomes more about the technology than the content being displayed on it. The most difficult aspect of this piece was coming up with a concept that fully justified our objective. We wanted to create something that invoked the user’s emotions and effectively immersed them in a space away from the physical world.

After extensive user research we found that the audience reacted best to spaces that were grounded in reality as it helped bridge the real and virtual world. With this in mind we created a series of architectural pieces, all holding significance in periods throughout history and then blended these pieces into a dream-like environment. We made the space reactive, as the user explores the space the elements shift angles accordingly.

This is to say, the user essentially floats through the space while balancing on a cloud.

Our physical display reflected this narrative. We sectioned off an area with large fabric partitions, creating a barrier around the user effectively allowing them to disconnect from the world and step into the virtual space. The intention was to allow them to engage the experience as soon as they stepped inside, and away from the world. This achieved a sense of detachment for the participant and gave them the freedom to explore the space freely.

The project was showcased at Ryerson University’s META; a new media art show in which it won the Ryerson Faculty Choice Award. Additionally it was showcased at Diende Visus; an independent new media show.

Completed in partnership with the incredibly talented Andrew Lang.