SINGAPORE – An interactive online exhibition launches today in celebration of the iconic 1988 Japanese animated post-apocalyptic cyberpunk film, Akira. Created by the artists at The Unusual Network and METAMO Industries, The Akira Gallery showcases 14 artworks by artists from Singapore, Japan and Philippines through an online exhibition that transports the visitor to an industrial complex set in 2020 NEO-Tokyo.
The digital works are complemented by a central sculpture by Japanese artist Humanoise. Viewers are able to zoom in to each artwork, read about the artist statement, and purchase the piece on the spot. A specially designed soundscape creates an atmosphere to transport the viewer, whilst the industrial space retains the physicality and intimacy of an exhibition.
Curator Steve Lawler said, “The Akira show was initially created to be a physical exhibition sometime in April, but due to COVID-19, we had to reimagine the experience to suit the online medium, whilst retaining the sense of discovery that comes with wondering around a physical space. This small experiment demonstrates the potential of online exhibitions where there are no constraints in space and capacity. The potential to add different interconnected virtual experiences that merge editorial content, online events, gaming, video and animation is endless and something we plan to explore in the future.”
The 3D environment was created by METAMO Industries with Unreal Engine. The space’s look and feel was built in real-time and the panoramic images were then uploaded to the Theasys.io platform where the virtual tour was designed.
Akira has been making headlines lately because of a scene from the beginning of the film, set in 2019 Neo-Tokyo, that notoriously predicts the cancellation of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Another reason for Akira’s relevance 32 years later is because it continues to inspire creatives to this day. Contributor Jaba One, the Columbian graffiti artist whose work can be seen all over Singapore, said “Akira is more than a classic, it is unbeatable perfection from a graphic point of view, a story engraved in my brain. A timeless masterpiece.”
The exhibition not only showcases some beautiful works that can be purchased with a simple click, but also points to new ways of creating and showcasing work. Artist Supercybertown for example, created his piece in the 3D creation platform Unreal Engine. Art prints will be printed on High Quality fine art paper by Brilliant Prints Singapore to ensure the finest output.
Contributing Artists:
Ivan Despi, Philippines
Lutfi Aufar, Indonesia
Humanoise, Japan
Jaba One, Singapore
Mojoko, Singapore
Arcadia, Singapore
Ashraf Omar, Singapore
Clog Two, Singapore
Eric Foenander, Singapore
Shiaaan, Singapore
Buro UFHO, Singapore
Sidd Wills, Singapore
Supercybertown, Singapore
Sound Design by Intriguant
