ACMI presents Beings with Universal Everything

ACMI promises a winter filled with boundless creativity as it hosts the world premiere of Beings from May 22 to September 29.

Showcased are 13 pieces drawn from the 20-year career of renowned international art and design collective Universal Everything, as well as four brand new artworks.

Featuring an array of digital characters created through code, visitors are invited to move, dance, and interact to animate these captivating creatures on large-scale screens.

“This is technology with heart and soul. Innovative, interactive, and enriching, Universal Everything’s joyous creations bring warmth and a sense of humanity,” ACMI director and CEO Seb Chan said.

“Whether you have an eye for design, an interest in new tech or are simply looking for some fun, this family-friendly experience will make you smile.”

Universal Everything crafts expansive digital pieces that reimagine traditional CGI, physics simulations, and real-time gaming graphics to create innovative moving images.

The exhibition will delve into the creative processes and cutting-edge technology behind the artworks, displaying hand-drawn sketches publicly for the first time.

“I relish this opportunity to push our studio practice even further, with some never-before-seen artworks created for Melbourne audiences,” Universal Everything founder Matt Pyke said.

Established in 2004, the UK-based collective has expanded into a global network of architects, engineers, designers, cinematographers, animators, musicians, and developers, and their distinctive works have been exhibited internationally. 

From Seoul to New York, London, and beyond, its collaborations include generative audiovisual apps with Radiohead, interactive spaces with Zaha Hadid Architects, and future research and development projects with Apple.

“I’m looking forward to being surprised by unexpected visitor responses to the show. We hope they have lots of fun,” Mr Pyke said.

The exhibition will also present a series of public programs throughout winter, such as late-night events, a contemporary dance series featuring local choreographers, school holiday activities, and ACMI Preschoolers – an interactive play-based session for children.

“ACMI is the home of endless play this winter – no two visits to Beings will be the same,” Mr Chan added. •