Tokyo, Japan, a city known for its technological advancements and creative spirit, offers a unique blend of art and technology that is truly mesmerizing. On my recent trip, I had the opportunity to explore several projects and installations that perfectly encapsulate this fusion. Here, I share my experiences and insights from this journey.
Anrealage x Rhizomatiks: A Fashionable Fusion
The Anrealage x Rhizomatiks exhibit at the Spiral exhibition space features a unique installation that combines fashion and technology in a captivating way. The centerpiece of this installation is a carousel of clothing, which is a rotating display of various garments from the Anrealage collection.
The carousel is not just a static display, but an interactive experience. Each garment on the carousel is exposed to UV light from a robotic arm. This UV light is not just for illumination, but it plays a crucial role in the exhibition. When the UV light hits the fabric of the clothing, it changes the colors of the garments. This is due to the special properties of the fabric used in the Anrealage collection, which reacts to UV light.
The UV light and the robotic arm are controlled by a complex system that ensures the light hits each garment at the right angle and intensity, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display of colors and patterns. This creates a mesmerizing effect, as the garments seem to change their appearance right before the viewer’s eyes.
As a memento of this unique experience, I purchased a UV reactive t-shirt from the Anrealage collection. This t-shirt, like the garments on display, changes color when exposed to UV light, serving as a wearable piece of art and a constant reminder of the innovative fusion of fashion and technology I witnessed at the exhibition.
This installation, developed in collaboration with Rhizomatiks, is a perfect representation of Anrealage’s philosophy of combining fashion with technology. It showcases the brand’s innovative use of materials and its ability to create garments that are not just beautiful, but also interactive and dynamic.
teamLab Planets: An Immersive Experience
The teamLab Planets exhibition is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a fully immersive experience that combines art, digital technology, and nature in a way that engages all senses. However, it’s worth noting that its popularity on social media has made it a hotspot for those seeking the perfect backdrop for their posts, which can lead to large crowds and detract from the immersive experience.
One of the most captivating installations in the exhibition is the “Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People — Infinity.” Visitors walk barefoot through a shallow pool of milky water, which becomes a canvas for digital Koi fish. These Koi fish are not just static images; they are interactive and respond to the presence of people. When a Koi fish encounters a person, it transforms into a burst of flower petals, creating a beautiful and dynamic display of colors and patterns on the water surface. This interaction is made possible by the use of the Microsoft Kinect, a motion-sensing device that detects the presence and movement of people.
Another notable installation is “The Infinite Crystal Universe.” This installation features hundreds of LED lights strung in a mirrored room. The LED lights are programmed to display different patterns, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly visual experience. Visitors can interact with the installation using the teamLab mobile app, selecting and changing the patterns displayed by the LED lights, making them active participants in the creation of the artwork.
These installations perfectly encapsulate the philosophy of teamLab. They are not just passive displays to be observed; they are interactive experiences that engage visitors and invite them to become part of the artwork. Whether it’s walking among digital Koi fish or controlling a universe of LED lights, visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the artwork and experience the fusion of art, technology, and nature in a unique and captivating way.
While the installations do make for beautiful photos, they are first and foremost a form of art meant to be experienced and appreciated in the moment. So, if you plan to visit, try to look beyond your camera lens and fully immerse yourself in the unique fusion of art, technology, and nature that teamLab Planets offers.
Electronicos Fantasticos: Music from the Unusual
The last project I wanted to visit was an interactive performance by Electronicos Fantasticos. This music collective uses retired AC powered appliances as musical instruments, creating a unique and captivating sound. Unfortunately, I missed this performance by just two days.
Electronicos Fantasticos is a project that aims to reincarnate old electrical appliances as new electromagnetic instruments. The collective invents new ways to play music and co-creates orchestras and festivals with diverse people and artist/musician Ei Wada. They have transformed various appliances, including CRT televisions, electric fans, camcorders, air conditioners, and telephones into instruments, creating a unique and captivating sound. I do hope I will have the opportunity to see a performance or attend a workshop hosted by them in the future.
Final Thoughts
My journey through Tokyo’s technological art scene was a testament to the city’s innovative spirit and its ability to blend creativity with technology. Each project offered a unique perspective and an immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of what is possible when art and technology come together. Whether it was the fusion of fashion and technology at Anrealage x Rhizomatiks, the immersive digital art at teamLab Planets, or the unique musical performances of Electronicos Fantasticos, each experience left a lasting impression and a deep appreciation for the creative spirit of Tokyo.
