“Hagoromo XR” by Jonathan Duckworth

Title:

Hagoromo XR

Artist(s) and People Involved:

Performers:



• Jonathan Duckworth -
  • RMIT University

Symposium:

• ISEA2024: 29th International Symposium on Electronic Art

Venue(s):

• QUT Creative Industries Precinct, The Block, Brisbane, Australia

Artist Statement:

Hagoromo XR is a groundbreaking exploration of cultural fusion and inclusivity in the realm of extended reality (XR) arts performance. Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese Noh theatre, our performance breathes new life into the ancient tale of Hagoromo, a story involving a fisherman discovering a magical feathered cloak and engaging with a celestial spirit to learn her dance. By bringing together a diverse ensemble of artists, including the neurodiverse sound art ensemble The Amplified Elephants and the acclaimed Noh singer Ryoko Aoki, we create a space where tradition meets innovation.

At the heart of our collaboration lies a commitment to fostering creativity and community among artists of all backgrounds. Through augmented reality (AR) projection and volumetric video capture, the artists transcend physical limitations, ensuring that every voice is heard, and every perspective valued. The result is a hybrid performance that invites audiences to immerse themselves in the mythology of Hagoromo’s narrative, experiencing it in ways both intimate and expansive.

The Hagoromo XR performance serves as a testament to the transformative power of art as a celebration of cultural exchange, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder that, in the realm of creativity, almost anything is possible.