Digital Art

Wisdome: Mystic Universe (Capsule Review)

Laura Hess

07 Jan 2022 • 2 min read

The image has a distorted view, curving the objects within. The central focus is the underside of a dome, which has digital art projected onto it. Bean bag-style chairs sit underneath. Other objects surround this main dome: grottos along the walls and inflated spheres, all are illuminated with bright colors and projections. Visitors stroll about. — Photo: Wisdome LA

[Original publication: No Proscenium, 11/24/21]

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Wisdome LA seems to have no issues with imposter syndrome. Its current show, Mystic Universe, states that, “for the first time in the history of mankind … we can see the ideas of ancient sages embodied in the works of modern artists.” (To start, Hilma af Klint might want a word?)

For context, Wisdome LA is billed as “LA’s first and largest immersive art and music dome park.” Anchored by five geodesic domes, the 24,000-square-foot park in DTLA includes food trucks, costume rentals, and retail options for all of your metaphysically-themed tchotchke needs. Mystic Universe features digital work by artists such as Julius Horsthuis, Igor Baranko, and Luminokaya. If you’ve been to Coachella, Burning Man, or Artechouse you may be familiar with members of the lineup.

For Horsthuis’ show, Fractal Time, the animation was crisp and textured, layered with rich, gorgeous detail. The movement was both subtle and dynamic; at times I closed my eyes because the sense of motion was so powerful. I’m a fan of Horsthuis and I’m also a fan of “Big Fun Art” (who hurt you, Kealy Boyd?). The key difference here is Wisdome is all spectacle and no substance. Although domed projection technology has advanced, the narrative frameworks haven’t. Mystic Universe is a selfie palace and no amount of breath work, Instagrammable grottos, rentable crystal headdresses, or “Wholly Mother of Health Salad[s]” will remedy that.

The dilemma highlights an opportunity for creators and producers to evaluate domed experiences outside of the festival circuit (and their captive audiences), so that this unique, immersive medium can deliver resonant experiences centered around story. For the moment, however, story is the responsibility of Mystic Universe’s audience; the only way to transcend Wisdome LA is to flex those role-playing muscles and craft your own mystical tale.