3-D virtual reality installation
November 7, 2008 - January 20, 2009

For decades the Berlin Wall was a symbol of repression and of the division of Germany, Europe, and indeed the entire world into two opposing political systems. On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, signaling the end of the Cold War. Germany-based artists T+T (Tamiko Thiel and Teresa Reuter) will present Virtuelle Mauer/ReConstructing the Wall, a virtual reality (VR) installation that allows visitors to explore a larger-than-life reconstruction of this iconic structure.

T+T’s 3D computer graphics simulation weaves in archival sound, image, and video, including records from the former East German Secret Service (Stasi). Users navigate through the digital landscape using a simple video game joystick, experiencing dramatic episodes that develop into a surreal, movie-like dream. Going far beyond pure documentation, the simulation creates unique narratives for each user, depending on the paths they take through both space and time. The mission: to experience the trials of a normal Berlin resident who must live day in and day out with the presence of the Wall.

Running from Nov 7 - Jan 20, the show is co-presented with the American Institute of Architects - Seattle, and curated by Misha Neininger, Executive Director of 911 Seattle Media Arts Center. This is the US premier of Virtuelle Mauer/ReConstructing the Wall, following its spectacular opening run at Berlin’s Museum für Kommunikation.

David Milam of Simon Frasier University in British Columbia spoke at the opening party on Friday, November 7th, 7pm about the user experience in interactive spaces, with opening remarks by Tamiko Thiel.

Tamiko Thiel delivered an in-depth artist talk on the piece at 911 Seattle Media Arts Center on Thursday, November 13, 8pm.