VMF will transform Vancouver's public spaces into augmented reality art

Starting this Family Day long weekend, Vancouver’s streets, plazas and alleyways are being transformed into open-air galleries all this month by augmented reality (AR) during VMF Winter Arts.

From February 12 to 28, the producers of Vancouver Mural Festival bring you a creative new way to safely explore the city and discover interactive digital art by local and international artists using their own personal smartphones.

Over 20 AR artworks by local and international artists can be found across the city’s core by downloading and using the VMF mobile app. All 17 AR locations can also be discovered while following COVID protocol by using downloadable maps found on the vanmuralfest.ca website.

“The past year, more than ever, has demonstrated the positive impact and importance of public art and public space for the well-being of individuals and communities,” said VMF in a statement. “Now, VMF pivots again to create a safe, new live experience to bring joy and inspiration to our city, while supporting local communities.

“By definition, “augment” means to “make something greater by adding to it”. Until we can reconvene again, we hope VMF Winter Arts augments your day, week and year. Thank you for sharing this experience with us.”

Artist rendering of AR by T’uy’t’tanat – VMF Winter Arts

BIPOC artists and curators make up over 50 percent of the 2021 VMF Winter Arts roster. International artists from Vienna, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh, and Dallas as well as 10 local artists from Vancouver, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil Waututh can be discovered during the 17-day event. 

Another addition to #VMFWinterArts is the Subspace Multi-channel Inductive Lattice Energizer aka S.M.I.L.E. by Ben Z. Cooper and Samm Z. Cooper. The installation, comissioned by Vancouver Pride Society at Bute & Davie pop-up plaza, is described as an illuminated portal “purpose-built for transforming the previous turbulent year into a new dawn.”

VMF Winter Arts – S.M.I.L.E. by Cooper Bros

“The concept behind this large-scale, experimental electrical assemblage is to realign your human consciousness by converting negative thoughts and emotions into positive ones,” said Vancouver Mural Festival in a release. “Walking through the illuminated circuitry will transmute your electrons, aligning your molecules toward optimism and success. All this by neutralizing the micro-optic transduction within the subspace photons. Presto!”

VMF will also be hosting a series of free online public workshops and discussions in partnership with the Vancouver Public Library. The events will highlight participating artists and offer opportunities for dialogue and connection around the artwork. 

VMF Winter Arts is a partnership of VMF and Downtown Vancouver BIA. Download the VMF mobile app to discover 20+ AR artworks during VMF Winter Arts Fest and over 250 murals across the city.

What: VMF Winter Arts

When: February 12 to 28, 2021
Where: Public Spaces across Vancouver’s core
Admission: Free

Daily Hive is a proud media partner of the Vancouver Mural Festival