Verity McIntosh is Associate Professor of Virtual and Extended Realities at UWE Bristol, and Director of Immersive Arts.

In a recent article, Verity provides an overview of immersive experiences showcased at this year's South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas. As part of the Future Art and Culture delegation, she explores a range of XR installations that push the boundaries of storytelling and audience engagement.

Highlights include:

  • participatory projects using AI and smartphones to create a shared familial narrative among participants
  • VR experiences that facilitate personal reflection on grief within calming virtual environments
  • immersive artworks giving users a bat-inspired experience, blending sound and movement in a unique sensory exploration

Verity's reflections provide valuable insights for curators and programmers interested in the evolving landscape of immersive art. Her observations highlight the innovative approaches artists are taking to engage audiences in meaningful and innovative ways.