Samsara

In the near future, Earth’s environment has been depleted due to the greed of mankind. Catastrophic wars to fight for resources resulted in global nuclear destruction. Forced to escape the planet to find a new home, the remaining humans search for a new place to live.

Despite many attempts, they inevitably find themselves returning to Earth time and time again as different life forms through the millennia. Like the six realms of existence in Buddhism, the viewer reincarnates and embodies different persons and creatures to find the ultimate spiritual transcendence.

An experiment that explores the concept of Embodied Cognition through virtual reality and interactivity, Samsara allows audiences to see through different perspectives, promoting empathy and a new understanding of our collective existence on Earth.

Samsara was selected for the 78th Venice VR Film Festival and also won the Jury Award of the SXSW and Best VR Story of the Cannes XR competition.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hsin-Chien Huang is a prominent new media artist in Taiwan, currently holding the position of Distinguished Professor in the Department of Design at National Taiwan Normal University. Hsin-Chien Huang specializes in the creation of large-scale new media and immersive content that combines XR, interactive elements, performing arts, installation art, and kinetic machinery. His revolutionary VR works have garnered international attention and received acclaim and awards both nationally and internationally.

One of his notable VR feature films, La Camera Insabbiata, created in collaboration with American avant-garde music icon Laurie Anderson, won the "Best VR Experience Award" at the 74th Venice Film Festival. Another work titled Bodyless received the "Honorary Mention" at the 2020 Prix Ars Electronica and the highest honor, the "Golden Mask," at the New Images Festival in Paris. Samsara was awarded the top prize by the jury at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival in Texas, USA, as well as the “Best VR Story” at the XR section of the Cannes Film Market in France. Furthermore, at 2022 Prix Ars Electronica, Samsara was honored with the "Computer Animation Honorary Mention" and "Jury Honorary Mention," showcasing its outstanding international recognition.

Notice

1. Please note that VR experiences are not recommended for individuals with claustrophobia, a history of seizures, epilepsy, and/or sensitivity to flashing lights.

2. Please refer to the Advisories before booking your ticket.

3. To create the best experience, each VR session starts on time. Please ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your purchased session.