Step into an imaginary Mars landscape at MediaCity, complete with a live music hologram.
- MediaCity hosts innovative events exploring creative research and business innovation.
- Red Field offers a Mars-inspired installation with themes of geopolitics and neocolonialism.
- Quantum delivers a 20-minute theatrical sound and light performance on AI and synthetic life.
- The events are part of MediaCity’s Cultural Accelerator programme, showcasing future-oriented technology.
At MediaCity later this month, visitors can immerse themselves in a simulated Mars landscape, experiencing a live music hologram performance that blends art and technology in a groundbreaking way. This imaginative setup is part of the University of Salford’s initiative at their MediaCity campus to provide engaging experiences that merge creative research with business innovation.
The MediaCity campus is a hub for two unique events that align with the BEYOND Conference’s goals. The focus here is on bridging the gap between creativity and technological advancement, highlighting significant contributions by artists and technologists.
One key feature is Red Field, a prototype installation by award-winning artist Nye Thompson and creative technologist Kriss Dunk. This installation allows participants to explore a stylized Mars topography, originally based on NASA’s scans. It challenges attendees to ponder the implication of placing digital footprints on Mars, engaging with themes of “neocolonialism” and the geopolitical dynamics of potential future Martian settlements.
Alongside this, Quantum, another intriguing project, offers a 20-minute performance that combines immersive soundscapes, hologram projections, and volumetric 3D animations. Richard Evans leads this project, produced by Cold Star Media, to delve into the future of artificial intelligence and synthetic life. This theatrical experience provides insight into the evolving conversation about AI’s role in society.
Both projects arise from the Cultural Accelerator programme, supported by FutureEverything and commissioned by the MediaCity Immersive Technologies Innovation Hub (MITIH) in collaboration with the University. The organizers aim to showcase how technological innovation, through artistic practice, can open new avenues for business growth and exploration.
In the words of Roger McKinley, the Creative Technology and Content Manager at the University of Salford: “We are delighted to be unveiling two truly innovative exhibitions… our shared belief in the power of technological innovation through artistic practice… helps companies explore new territories.”
The BEYOND Conference calls together current and emerging innovators dedicated to R&D across the creative industries, making MediaCity a vital player in nurturing future-forward technologies.
These immersive events at MediaCity exemplify the potential of technology and art when combined to foster new ideas and innovations.
