Ben Elliot: Metaone
, Esther Schipper, Berlin
Metaone is an ambitious metaverse project by the artist Ben Elliot. Elliot imagines a virtual paradise that represents a future world where history, nature, technology and science intertwine and enhance one another. As part of the project, Elliot has created a new virtual reality artwork, co-commissioned and presented by VIVE Arts, in partnership with Esther Schipper and organised with Olivier Renaud-Clément.
Divided into four distinct environments, Metaone offers viewers an immersive exploration of cutting-edge ideas and values. The first area, SHAPE, is a space for thought-provoking discussions of future architecture, design, and web3 aesthetics. DEEP takes viewers on a dreamlike journey into the world of data and AI. INFINITE imagines unlimited creativity through generative software. And in ZEN, viewers discover a tranquil, sensory space, designed to promote well-being and foster a beneficial connection to the metaverse.
The guided immersive experience, presented at the Paris gallery from June 20th to 24th, 2023, was conceived as an introductory visit to Metaone. The project will officially premiere at Esther Schipper in Berlin from November 3rd to December 2nd, 2023. The overall project encompasses a virtual-reality artwork within an immersive installation, including state-of-the-art furniture, unique prints, and video.
Ben Elliot (b. 1994) is an artist who addresses contemporary themes such as the impact of emerging technologies, the rise of influence marketing, and the formation of socioeconomic trends. In his process, Elliot often incorporates leading companies, individuals, and objects to examine the concepts and values they embody. His work has been presented at Reiffers Art Initiative, Paris (2022), König Galerie, Berlin (2021), Unit London (2021), Galerie Hussenot, Paris (2020), Exo Exo, Paris (2019), Magasins Généraux, Pantin (2019). His work is in the collections of X Museum, Beijing; FRAC Nouvelle-Aquitaine MECA, Bordeaux; Collection VR Dafaux, Paris; MACAAL Musée d’Art Contemporain Africain Al Maaden, Marrakech; and Sigg Art Foundation among others.
IMAGE CREDIT:
Ben Elliot, Sunset in Metaone. Courtesy: Artist and Esther Schipper, Berlin/Paris/Seoul.
Ben Elliot, Metaone (Zen). Courtesy: Artist and Esther Schipper, Berlin/Paris/Seoul.
Ben Elliot, Metaone (Infinite). Courtesy: Artist and Esther Schipper, Berlin/Paris/Seoul.
Ben Elliot, Metaone (Shape). Courtesy: Artist and Esther Schipper, Berlin/Paris/Seoul.