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In the bustling Rockbund district of Shanghai, a remarkable fusion of past and future is taking place within the Art Deco walls of the Capitol Theatre Building. Here, Argentine digital artist Six N. Five, also known as Ezequiel Pini, is showcasing “Memories of Tomorrow,” an immersive exhibition that breathes new life into the historic venue.

The exhibition, a collaborative effort between TRLab and the Rockbund Art Museum sponsored by Dior and Triple X, signifies a notable moment in the convergence of digital art and architectural heritage. The Capitol Theatre, recently restored to its former glory by David Chipperfield Architects, serves as more than just a backdrop; it’s an integral component of the exhibition’s narrative. This blend of digital art with historical architecture mirrors a broader trend in the art world, where the fusion of the old and the new is increasingly prominent.

Six N. Five, renowned for his surreal digital landscapes, has crafted a journey through time and space in “Memories of Tomorrow.” The exhibition is composed of four spatial ‘performances’ that manipulate light, shadow, and geometry, transforming the theatre’s unique architectural elements into a canvas for digital storytelling. The recurring motif of an empty chair throughout the installation adds a poignant layer, symbolizing both presence and absence.

Image: PR

The exhibition attracted over 2,300 visitors in its opening week, lured by the promise of an experience that goes beyond traditional art viewing. Audrey Ou, Co-Founder & CEO of TRLab, describes it as “one of the most visually stunning experiences in digital art,” where the physical and digital realms converge in a seamless and captivating manner.

“Memories of Tomorrow” is the first in a series of site-specific digital art exhibitions slated for 2024. This initiative not only underscores the potential of digital art in revitalizing historical spaces but also indicates a shift in how art is consumed and experienced in the digital age.

As the exhibition continues to draw crowds, it stands as a testament to the evolving narrative of art and space. In Shanghai, the Capitol Theatre, once a beacon of early 20th-century cinema, now ushers in a new era of digital art, bridging the gap between the past and the future, and redefining the boundaries of artistic expression.

Crowds have lined up around the block to enter the show. Image: TRLab

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