“I came to VR art late in life and considers myself a ‘baby VR artist’. I originally studied theatre design at the prestigious Central/ St Martin’s School of Art in London, and after a few years, dabbling the pop-promo scene, I set up her own ‘faery’ clothing company, leading a rich life travelling around the world sourcing amazing textiles to sell at fairs and festivals. This satisfied my creative urge, as every new festival stall was a fresh ‘set’ at events like the famous Glastonbury Festival. My love of VR, especially as an expressive artist, was born after experiencing a VR exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London several years ago, after which, I was hooked, and soon after, bought my first headset. I feel the need to paint every day for the sheer joy of it. I have no idea where this VR journey will lead, but I am open and ready. In my spare time, I am a firewalking instructor, ecstatic dance fanatic, and dabble in stand-up comedy. My desire is to share this new technology with others, put on public VR paint shows, and spread the word, making the experience accessible for everyone.” — Carli Susu
What drew you to VR specifically?
Several years ago, I went to see a VR exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London, and that was it, I was hooked. Soon after, I bought my first headset, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. I paint every day, and particularly love Tilt Brush with its freedom to dance with the paint, which ties in nicely with my ecstatic dance experience, plus, its sparkle is magic. I am definitely an artist, rather than a designer when it comes to VR. I also feel like I’m standing at the rim of a giant cauldron of new technology and expression with limitless possibilities. The marriage of art and cutting edge technology inspires me. VR is a very powerful tool to instil empathy for others; one can literally walk in someone else’s shoes, see the world from their perspective, and the educational and therapeutic aspects are something I am just beginning to consider.
What are some of your favorite work pieces that you have created and why?
I am particularly proud of some of my cities and forests, as they can transport you into another world, another dimension. The colours can lift the mood, and inspire. I would love to see others dancing in my VR sets.
What is your favorite type of art to create / work to do?
I enjoy making huge, immersive worlds, stages, sets, party rooms, forests, cities, spaces to dance in, explore, and connect with others. The social aspect of VR is even more poignant in these strange times, and I want to further explore the marriage of Ecstatic Dance and VR. My work really needs to be seen from within, to be walked around in and experienced. I always like to put in hidden surprises, and I love the way a piece can look and feel so different depending on the angle and scale it is being viewed from. I use a lot of transparent colours, which create new colours when seen together.