“Topia” constructs worlds within worlds by creating an immaterial space through the opening and closing of surfaces. The spectator finds themself torn between reality and perception. By reconsidering the screen as an architectural element, which primarily functions as a division of space, filter, shelter, and means of camouflage (Buckley et al., 2019), we can establish a new concept of the screen. Created through digital technologies, but manifested in the physical environment, this new screen is defined as immaterial space. As we move away from the screen as a material object, technological aspects no longer determine a space, but rather become an instrument to create atmospheres and spaces that we perceive immaterial.
Topia’s first version was created in collaboration with Bob Roijen (production design), Boris Acket (light programming), and Pandelis Diamantides (sound design).
Biography
Zalán Szakács is an artist who brings together immersive art, scenography and media theory research. Through his work, Szakács explores the relationship between space, body and technology, resulting in multi-sensory experiences that include elements such as light, sound, smell, tactility and movement. Szakács’ art installations invite the viewer on a mystical journey where reality and fiction intertwine. Attuned to both the individual and collective experience, it evokes a deeper awareness of the body in space and is capable of transporting the viewer to another place and time.
He has been exhibiting, performing, and screening at CTM Festival (DE), MUTEK MX (MX), Ars Electronica Festival (AUT), International Film Festival Rotterdam (NL), Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam (NL), Het Nieuwe Instituut (NL), V2_ Lab for the Unstable Media (NL), Kunsthaus Graz (AUT), MU Hybrid Art House (NL), Instrument Inventors Initiative (NL), TENT Rotterdam (NL), Zsolnay Light Festival (HU), and Light Art Museum Budapest (HU), among other places. Szakács is a core teacher at Utrecht University of Arts and an affiliated researcher at Utrecht University.