Behind the scenes of Transcendence, Arnaud Quercy has been spearheading a complex and ambitious technical setup to bring his vision of 360-degree immersion to life. Creating an experience where every wall and surface in the gallery becomes part of a living, breathing artwork required an innovative technical approach, one that blended artistic vision with engineering precision.
The 360-Degree Broadcasting System
At the heart of the setup is a custom-designed 360 broadcasting system, engineered by Quercy himself. This system is powered by five synchronized micro-computers, each programmed to control specific aspects of the projections. The synchronization allows the visuals to flow seamlessly across the gallery’s walls and ceiling, creating a cohesive environment that immerses audiences in the artwork. Every projector was meticulously calibrated to align with the gallery’s architecture, allowing for precise mapping that covers every corner of the space.
“Creating this level of immersion is all about precision,” Quercy explains. “Each micro-computer has to work in harmony with the others to ensure the visuals remain fluid and cohesive from every angle.”
Projection Mapping and High-Resolution Beamers
Using high-resolution beamers strategically placed throughout the gallery, Quercy brought his digital art to life, layering his painted works with animated projections. This process, known as projection mapping, allowed him to tailor each visual sequence to the gallery’s structure, turning the walls and ceiling into extensions of his artwork. The result is a space that feels like stepping inside a painting, where images move and evolve around the viewer, transforming their perception of the gallery.
Animating Artwork with Blender 3D
Quercy’s animations, developed in Blender 3D, are an essential part of Transcendence, as they allow his static paintings to take on new dimensions and movements. Each digital animation incorporates elements from his existing works, bringing themes and symbols from the paintings into a dynamic, interactive space. These animated sequences were designed specifically to reflect the themes of faith, love, and hope, shifting and evolving to guide viewers through a journey of reflection and connection.
Testing and Fine-Tuning for a Seamless Experience
Given the technical complexity, each component required thorough testing and calibration. Quercy conducted multiple trials to ensure that the projections were perfectly synchronized with the sound and visuals. This process included adjusting the brightness, colors, and movement speed of the animations, allowing for a truly immersive experience that would remain engaging from every vantage point in the gallery. These tests also accounted for audience movement, ensuring that no matter where a visitor stood, they would feel enveloped by the art.
As the grand opening approached, the gallery space transformed into an interactive canvas of sound and light. Every technical element—from the synchronized micro-computers to the custom animations—reflected the dedication and skill that Quercy poured into the project. With the technical preparations nearing completion, Transcendence was set to redefine immersive art, offering a space where digital art and music converge to evoke the most profound of human emotions.