Ultrasubjective Space and Digital Art

Ultrasubjective space adopts the concepts and representations of spatial awareness found in the art of premodern Japan and interprets them using digital technology. It provides immense possibilities for digital art by allowing viewers to interact directly with the artwork. As a viewer walks freely through an art space, the artworks transform based on his or her behavior and movement. Viewers are able to experience art in a new way—through movement, interaction, and collaboration. Ultrasubjective space allows art to flourish in a new and previously unimagined way.

“Fold, Divide or Join” and “Space Adaptability”

An art space that has been flattened through ultrasubjective space can be folded and divided without making the image or space seem uncomfortable. The new space is extremely adaptable and compatible with digital techniques. Splitting, folding, or joining these surfaces and reconstructing them into a physical space that viewers can enter enables teamLab to continuously create new forms of such spaces.

“Gigantic Space” and “Shifting of Viewpoint”

Art in the tradition of Western perspective uses a fixed focal point, or single-point perspective. Ultrasubjective space, however, does not adhere to fixed vanishing points, making it possible for viewers to shift their positions and points of view. It allows for the creation of vast spaces in which viewers can move freely and experience multiple perspectives. Viewers can take part in an artwork from their own individual positions, without priority over one another, appreciating the influence of participation on the work.

All Viewers can Experience the Artwork Interactively from their Own Centric Positions

The “flatness”of ultrasubjective space is one in which there exists no fixed viewpoint or barrier between the viewer and the projection surface. This ultrasubjective space facilitates the interaction between the viewer and artwork, and allows the viewer to instigate changes in the work. Each viewer can interact with the artwork from his or her own individual position, without any priority over anybody else, appreciating the influences that they themselves and others around them exert on the work.