Seeing The Invisible 1.7

Seeing the Invisible is an augmented reality contemporary art exhibition initiated by the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens in partnership with Outset Contemporary Art Fund, with the support of the Jerusalem Foundation. This unique exhibition marks the first collaboration between botanical gardens worldwide, showcasing a series of thirteen augmented reality (AR) works by esteemed artists from various countries. Co-curators Hadas Maor, curator of contemporary art, and Tal Michael Haring, virtual and augmented reality expert, have curated both existing and newly commissioned pieces to be displayed in twelve different botanical gardens simultaneously. Each garden offers a distinctive backdrop that transforms the viewer's experience, reflecting the diversity of the global locations.

Seeking to engage local communities and provide a cultural escape during these challenging times, Seeing the Invisible presents an innovative approach to blending art with nature. Viewers are encouraged to immerse themselves in these thought-provoking digital experiences by using the Seeing the Invisible mobile app exclusively available at the participating botanical gardens. The exhibition challenges traditional boundaries by intertwining nature, technology, and art within the serene settings of botanical gardens.

By incorporating cutting-edge augmented reality into these organic environments, the exhibition prompts reflection on topics such as sustainability and environmental consciousness. Each artwork offers a distinct perspective on these pressing issues, inviting viewers to contemplate their relationship with nature and technology. Through physical exploration of the garden spaces, visitors can interact with and alter the digital artworks in real-time, blurring the lines between physical and digital realms.

Unlike traditional exhibitions, Seeing the Invisible requires visitors to engage with the artworks on-site, fostering a unique "phygital" experience that merges physical presence with digital immersion. This approach encourages deeper introspection into contemporary themes of space and existence, echoing historical debates surrounding physical versus digital contexts. Much like Robert Smithson's pioneering Site/Nonsite works from 1968 challenged conventional sculptural practices, this exhibition pushes boundaries by integrating art into our rapidly evolving technological landscape.