IMMERSIVISM
"Immersivism...the art of the internet"
"What is Immersivism?"
Immersivism is art that expresses ideas and feelings about virtual spaces. Think of painting a picture of your favorite game level where you practically spend all of your time, a beautiful sculpture of the Warcraft character you've had for years, or a breathtaking virtual landscape you took a photo of to preserve its memory. That's Immersivism.
Who created Immersivism?
The movement is older than what any of us can truly tell, but the research to shape the movement as it is today was provided by Bryn Oh and K. Guillory.
"Why should Immersivism exist?"
Why shouldn't it? Should we keep treating art inspired by gaming as lower than any other form of art out there? If it's a beautiful work of art, who cares what it's inspired by?
"What does it mean that Immersivism is decentralized?"
All over the internet, people make art of everything from their favorite vtubers to really cute outfits their avatar is wearing in their favorite game. There is so much of this art that it's impossible for one person to control what any of these people are doing. Thus, it is a naturally decentralized art movement.
"If there's so much of this art, what makes it worth being in a museum?"
Art can exist for many reasons. Immersivism is novel in that many people who create it do so primarily for their own enjoyment. For this art to fit in a museum, it simply has to obey the quality standards of the museum that wants to showcase it.
"If I want to make really high-end Immersivist art, what should I do?"
Make art that not only talks about the beauty of a virtual world, but the potential problems that come with virtual worlds too. Think of how gaming can improve and how you can deliver this message in your work. Think of how developers are treated in the game industry. Think of how predatory gachapon mechanics are. Think of a user who wears a harmless looking avatar while inflicting harm on others. To make Immersivist art is to make art about the internet. Start there, and you'll find a path forward. And don't forget--a virtual world can be Immersivism too (because games can be art!).
Can I apply to be listed as an artist here?
Please read how to apply here. The artists listed here are to show a range of styles and applications Immersivism can take. Please check back towards the end of January for when we'll be listing more artists.