• TL;DR: A new exhibition by Universal Everything is coming to ACMI—and you get to be a part of it.

• So what? Beings is a full-body dive into the vibrant world of characters created from code that promises an ever-changing experience with every visit.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is set to transform into a dynamic playground with the world premiere of Beings, an interactive exhibition by the renowned art and design collective Universal Everything. Opening this month and running until September, Beings invites visitors to interact with a series of captivating digital creatures and environments that respond uniquely to each human encounter.

What’s in Beings?

Beings is a feast for the senses featuring 13 artworks, including four never before seen pieces, that span the 20-year trajectory of Universal Everything.

Evolving from a simple sketch into a vibrant throng of fantasy beings, Universal Everything's creations are a spectacle of modern display technologies. The collective employs sophisticated digital canvases to challenge the norms of cinematic CGI, physics simulations, and real-time gaming graphics—elements traditionally harnessed by Hollywood and video game developers. This innovative approach results in uniquely engaging and continually evolving moving images.

The installations, driven by dynamic algorithms, morph and adapt in real time. Each visit promises a distinct experience as these generative artworks intelligently respond to and evolve with the interactions of each visitor, ensuring no two encounters are alike.

Technology with heart and soul

“This is technology with heart and soul. Innovative, interactive, and enriching, Universal Everything’s joyous creations bring warmth and a sense of humanity. Whether you have an eye for design, an interest in new tech or are simply looking for some fun, this family-friendly experience will leave you with a smile,” said ACMI Director & CEO Seb Chan about the exhibit's immersive qualities.

Matt Pyke, the founder of Universal Everything, echoed Chan's sentiments, expressing his excitement about pushing creative boundaries: “I relish this opportunity to push our studio practice even further, with some never-before-seen artworks created for Melbourne audiences. And as ever, I’m looking forward to being surprised by unexpected visitor responses to the show. We hope they have lots of fun.”

Curious creatures, born from code

Beings is a testament to the evolution of art in the digital age. It provides a platform where technology meets creativity, resulting in a living landscape that visitors can shape and redefine through their interactions. With its innovative approach to art and its ability to engage audiences of all ages, Beings at ACMI is poised to be a landmark event in Melbourne's cultural calendar.

Be ready to explore, interact, and be transformed at Beings—where every visit brings a new experience, ensuring no two trips through this digital wonderland are ever the same. For more details, visit acmi.net.au.