About Blast theory
Blast Theory: Pioneering Interactive Art and Performance
Blast Theory is a world-renowned artists' group that has been pushing the boundaries of interactive media for over two decades. Founded in 1991 by Matt Adams, Ju Row Farr, and Nick Tandavanitj, Blast Theory has gained a reputation for creating groundbreaking new forms of performance and interactive art that blur the lines between reality and fiction.
With a focus on audience participation, Blast Theory's work often involves using technology to create immersive experiences that challenge our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us. From live performances to digital broadcasting, their work spans multiple platforms and mediums.
One of Blast Theory's most notable works is "Can You See Me Now?", an online game that combines virtual reality with real-world locations. Players navigate through city streets while being pursued by "runners" who are physically located in the same area as the player. The game was first launched in 2001 and has since been played all over the world.
Another example of Blast Theory's innovative approach to interactive media is "Rider Spoke", a bike ride where participants use custom-built bicycles equipped with GPS devices to explore their surroundings while sharing their thoughts on various topics via audio recordings. The project was first presented at the Venice Biennale in 2009 and has since been adapted for cities around the globe.
Blast Theory's work has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including being shortlisted for both BAFTA (British Academy of Film & Television Arts) Awards and Prix Ars Electronica (an international competition honoring excellence in digital art). Their installations have been exhibited at major museums such as Tate Modern in London, ZKM Center for Art & Media Karlsruhe in Germany, Centre Pompidou-Metz in France, among others.
What sets Blast Theory apart from other artists' groups working with interactive media is their commitment to exploring social issues through their work. Many of their projects tackle topics such as surveillance, privacy, and the impact of technology on our lives. For example, "Karen", a performance piece that premiered in 2015, explores the ethics of drone warfare by putting audience members in the position of a drone pilot.
In addition to their artistic work, Blast Theory also offers workshops and training programs for artists and students interested in learning more about interactive media. They have worked with organizations such as MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Goldsmiths University in London to develop curriculum and provide mentorship to emerging artists.
Overall, Blast Theory is an innovative and thought-provoking group that continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with interactive media. Their work challenges us to think critically about our relationship with technology while providing engaging experiences that are both entertaining and enlightening.