Art Apps and an Iphone Installation

    Since recently acquiring an Iphone I've been searching for all the art related apps. MY favourite one has to be the Tate Modern Art Terms app, it's great for quickly accessing explanations to the language of modern art when your on the move. The app the rich in content and most terms feature visual examples. (Althought I should mentions the definitions appear to be offered for free on the Tate website making $2.99 fee questionable). I'm also enjoying the free MoMA app which keeps me in touch with what's being exhibited in the famous New York Museum.

     Much more exhilarating however, was "How It Is". This is a free app inspired by Miroslav Balka and functions as a downloadable explorable installation piece. The App was developed by the production company Nexus and interactive directors Champagne Valentine and is a creative interpretation of the artist's work.  It was coupled with the launch of the a physical installation by the same name at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall from 2009. This massive yet minimal piece featured a large, dark, and empty shipping container.  Both the physical and virtual installations seem to hinge of the ideas of hesitance and fear as you have to decide for yourself how or if you wish to explore the darkened spaces. 

     The App is terrifying. You explore the odd space at your desired speed and tap the screen to interact with your environment. The visuals aren't overwhelming as they are minimal and darkness consumes most of the screen. The sound was terrific however, many loud screeches and haunting drips and cracks. If anyone out there knows of any similar apps or web installations please let me know.

Balka's How It Is: https://www.tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/unilevermiroslawbalka/default.shtm