While there are definitely works of art in regular life that the viewer can “enter into,” that experience is more the exception, rather than the rule. (– And let me re-emphasize that I said, exception rather than rule).

One memorable experience I had was in Amsterdam at the Stedelijk Museum when I walked into The Beanery by Edward Keinholz. It’s been years since I was inside of the Beanery, but it’s interesting, surrealistic. The bar has music and a crowd sound, and it is immersive. I have never experienced another artwork quite like it, and I spend a fair amount of time in museums.

The Beanery (1965) by Edward Kienholz, at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.

The Beanery (1965) by Edward Kienholz at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.

Another example I can think of would be Seward Johnson’s sculptures based on impressionist artworks, such as Manet’s Dejeuner sur l’Herbe.

Dejeuner sur l’herbe, sculpture by Seward Johnson based on the painting by Manet.

Art in Second Life is, just by its nature, immersive. While I have seen standard exhibits of paintings and photographs done there, it is the three dimensional spaces that I can enter into that I am drawn to the most. I’ve spent the last several days wandering around different LEA (Linden Endowment for the Arts) exhibits, and have thoroughly enjoyed myself.

In a LEA (Linden Endowment for the Arts) Installation.

I found this exhibit early on Friday morning, and thought I was in the installation by Thoth Janzten. However, I have not managed to find this again when I returned to Janzten’s exhibit following its official opening. If someone can post a comment — I would love to correct the attribution. It was a lovely space.

So you artists and art lovers out there — if you’ve never been into Second Life, come in-world. This is an extraordinary place full of highly creative people. We’re looking forward to meeting you!