Virtual Reality in Venice at the Biennale and Film Festival

Abstract

The present thesis provides an analysis of the impact of virtual reality (VR) in the two most prestigious cultural events in Venice: the Art Biennale and the Film Festival, which have shaped the artistic and cinematic identity of the lagoon city since their birth. To better understand the theme, a journey through the history and evolution of virtual reality is necessary and initially traced, starting from its origins to today’s technological complexity. This is accomplished through an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses disciplines such as archaeology, art history, technology history, and computer science. The paper outlines the development of early examples of virtual reality, examining the artifacts and pioneering devices that have contributed to shaping the perception and implementation of VR over the centuries. The work extends to the present day, analysing the rapid evolution of virtual reality technologies and their impact on various sectors such as medicine, education, industry, and entertainment. In the context of emerging perspectives in the contemporary landscape, it becomes apparent how virtual works are influencing the experience of enjoyment in the artistic and cinematic domain. A thorough investigation was conducted on the most recent editions of the Biennale and the Film Festival, with the assistance of various sources: academic articles and catalogues contained in the Biennale archives. Case studies of works by artists and directors who have integrated virtual reality into their exhibition projects are presented, examining how these innovative approaches and immersive technologies are transforming and enriching the experience of visual and cinematic art. This transformation is not only at the local level but also on a global scale, given the significance of these events for the international cultural scene. The paper aims to provide an in-depth understanding of virtual reality as a cultural and technological phenomenon, highlighting the transformations it has undergone over time and the implications it has had and continues to have in contemporary society, particularly in the established cultural contexts of the Art Biennale and the Film Festival. In conclusion, the opportunities and challenges that this innovation presents for the future of art, but especially for cinema, are emphasized.