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Mathew Zefeldt’s latest exhibition, ‘Customizable Realities’, currently on display at The Hole in New York City, is shaking up the traditional art scene by diving deep into the world of digital culture. Using imagery from the wildly popular video game Grand Theft Auto 5, Zefeldt crafts immersive pieces that mirror the profound impact of our digital lives on how we perceive and experience art.
The Art of Digital Influence
In ‘Customizable Realities’, Zefeldt’s paintings don’t just represent; they create a trompe l’oeil effect that imitates the look of computer-generated imagery. What might first appear as pixelated prints on canvas is actually a meticulously hand-painted illusion that draws viewers into a captivating experience. The environments he portrays—strikingly devoid of human presence—reveal remnants of fictional car crashes, disasters that exist solely in the digital realm. Why does this absence make us question whether such incidents, easily forgotten and endlessly repeated, are even disasters at all?
“For the last two years, I’ve been creating works inspired by the digital world,” Zefeldt explains. “This exhibition focuses exclusively on Grand Theft Auto 5, the best-selling video game of all time. Its open-world format lets players explore and craft their own narratives, presenting immense freedom and beauty that parallel reality.” His choice of subject matter spotlights the allure of digital landscapes, often seeming more vibrant and engaging than our physical surroundings.
Video Games as Artistic Inspiration
When the conversation turns to his relationship with video games, Zefeldt reveals, “I play them often. It’s integral to my research.” His passion traces back to childhood, where gaming culture thrived alongside his brothers. “There’s something fascinating about open-world games, like Grand Theft Auto, where players can create their own adventures,” he reflects, fondly recalling those early gaming experiences.
Yet, Zefeldt doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of video games. “It’s hard to make art about this medium without acknowledging the violence that many games portray. The player’s control over their actions creates a psychological experience that’s distinct from traditional violent media.” This unique dynamic is especially pronounced in Grand Theft Auto, where players navigate a world free from real-life consequences, prompting us to consider the morality and implications of violence in our digital playgrounds.
The Immersive Experience of Art
At The Hole, Zefeldt has designed an environment that envelops viewers, inviting them to step into a painted world that echoes digital landscapes. “This is my most ambitious show yet,” he shares. “I wanted to create an experience that requires physical presence. In a time when we consume images through small screens, I aimed to present something that surrounds the viewer, much like stepping into a video game.”
By encouraging audiences to engage physically, Zefeldt underscores the importance of experiencing art in person. “Can painting compete with the immersive experiences of IMAX or virtual reality? I’m exploring how painting can respond to the ways we consume images today,” he muses, highlighting his commitment to evolving the medium.
Conclusion: Art as Reflection of Society
Zefeldt’s ‘Customizable Realities’ offers a thought-provoking look at how digital culture influences contemporary art. His innovative approach raises crucial questions about reality, freedom, and the consequences of our digital interactions. “I want my work to evoke thought and encourage viewers to reflect on their relationship with the digital world,” he concludes.
With the exhibition running until February 10, visitors are invited to dive into this groundbreaking exploration of art and digital realities, challenging our perceptions of what it means to create and experience art in the modern age. Are you ready to rethink your relationship with the digital world?