Space Invader: An Immigrant Experience Through Immersive Art
Friday, June 3 – Saturday, July 9, 2022
Somerville, Massachusetts, is the home of the first American flag. This show embraces the hopes and darkness of our nation's inception and its future as we present our views through the metaphor of a 'Space Invader.' The title of this project spotlights the terminology and use of the word "Alien" as a label often used for immigrants. When used within this context, the term implies a negative connotation - in media, literature, and politics.
Space Invader is curated by local audio-visual artist and spatial sound researcher Rook Murao, an immigrant and naturalized citizen. Murao explores this concept of "Alien" through satire, parody, comedy, and even absurdity within the context of an art show. Through projection mapping and spatial sounds, Space Invader celebrates the fact that America is a multicultural kaleidoscope. For the majority, no matter your skin color, WE ARE ALL ALIENS HERE. This project is a reminder that we are all part of the same living family and, in part, a rumination about the future of America.
Programming
Curator Tour Conversation: Wednesday, June 15th, 6 pm-7:30 pm (in-person at Museum) | $10 admission fee; free to Museum members
Tickets must be reserved in advance and space is limited.
Closing Reception: Thursday, July 7th from 6:00-8:00 pm | $5 admission fee; free to Museum members. Reserve Here
About the Curator
Haruki Rook Murao
Haruki Rook Murao is an audio/visual artist and spatial sound researcher from Los Angeles, currently based in Boston, focusing efforts on creating immersive art spaces. His work explores systems and structures, media, counter-culture, and the relationship between space and visibility. In addition, he works at the intersection of art, technology, journalism, and education to open questions about systems that shape social psychology and trigger connection and empathy between humans and those categorized outside those boundaries.
This program is supported in part by a grant from the Somerville Arts Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
