November 15, 2024
XR Artist in Residence — Pierre Friquet — explores Ocean Literacy, Aquatic VR and Captain Nemo”
Written by kalomar
As part of a residency at the Basically Good Media Lab (BGML) at Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU), Paris-based digital artist Pierre “Pyaré” Friquet has been working with students, staff and faculty on his latest VR video game, Captain Nemo.
This project is designed to foster a sense of interconnectedness and environmental awareness. Through symbiotic encounters, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance within the marine ecosystem and the importance of interdependence among species. Stunning visuals, immersive soundscapes, and captivating interaction mechanics combine to create a mesmerizing experience.
One version of this multimedia project uses aquatic VR to showcase the beauty and complexity of the underwater world. PYARé’s startup, NiGHT, creates immersive travel experiences through virtual reality and aquatic installations. Safely floating in pool water, users wear our MeRCURY immersive diving mask to explore virtual worlds while comfortably breathing through a snorkel.
“Aquatic virtual reality raises awareness about the URGENCY of protecting the oceans without the need for polluting transportation or disturbing wildlife,” says Julie GAUTHIER, underwater filmmaker.
The residency will be through the month of November
About Pierre Friquet
PYARé has designed immersive experiences (VR, dome films, AR, video mapping, etc.) such as Spaced Out, Jet Lag, Vibrations, and Patterns. His vision is to enable people to reconnect with their bodies and sense of self through art and technology. His experiences have won awards at the Festival du Nouveau Cinéma, Kaleidoscope Festival, and Filmgate Festival. Notably, his aquatic VR project, SPACED OUT, was selected at Sundance Festival. Also, he has founded a company called NiGHT and designed an immersive diving mask, which immerses visitors in a pool while in VR, presenting it at the cultural program of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His work has been covered by media such as Wired, Vice, Forbes, The Verge, CNET, and IndieWire. After living in India, South Africa, and Canada, he’s now based in Paris.
Pierre Friquet’s XR residency is supported by The Basically Good Media Lab, ECU and the Consulate General of France in Vancouver.
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