Breakwater

Still from the animated installation 'Breakwater' by Joel Zika

Joel Zika. Juried Artist
Big City Lights


Artist Statement

Breakwater is an installation of animated light sculptures by digital artist Joel Zika. The work inspired by the tributaries and water infrastructure surrounding the Turrbal: Maiwar or Brisbane River region. Breakwater features a series of digital sculptures which appear to float magically in front of audiences thanks to cutting edge holographic screens. This unique work allows audiences of all ages to engagements with a rich content in new and immersive ways. Joel Zika’s intricate 3D animations will shine brightly during the early afternoon and through the night to create an abstracted series of illusions inside the shopfronts of Southport. The content will showcase the hidden components that bring water to the community and the natural systems that they link to. The work is produced by Collide Public Arts Initiative.

About the artists

Dr. Joel Zika is an immersive media specialist who studies the entertainment industry and creates contemporary design works from that research. Joel has led projects in virtual reality film, documentary, interactive animation and public installation for over 15 years. A key aspect of his research and future endeavors lies in the application of game engines for the location-based entertainment sector and virtual production. His work features in the books ‘Darkness and Light in Australia Art’ and ‘Digital Light’ from Fibreculture books.

Dr. Joel Zika is an immersive media specialist who studies the entertainment industry and creates contemporary design works from that research. Joel has led projects in virtual reality film, documentary, interactive animation and public installation for over 15 years. A key aspect of his research and future endeavors lies in the application of game engines for the location-based entertainment sector and virtual production. His work features in the books ‘Darkness and Light in Australia Art’ and ‘Digital Light’ from Fibreculture books. Joel is currently an Assistant Professor of User Experience and Animation at Kent State University.

Led by James Voller, Collide is a public art initiative at the intersection of art and architecture. They research, design and facilitate artworks in public places, which can include temporary works, residency-based research, exhibitions, events and even large-scale permanent works created in collaboration with governments, developers and architects.

Credits: Joel Zika, Produced by Collide Public Arts

URL: http://joelzika.com

ISEA2024 acknowledges the Turrbal and Yugara as the First Nations owners of the lands where the symposium will be held. We pay our respects to their elders, lores, customs and creation spirits. We also acknowledge and pay respects to all First Nations peoples across the continent and beyond Australian shores.