Shogyo Mujo projection-mapped sculpture premieres at AREA15

BARTKRESA studio's Shogyo Mujo is a unique installation that utilizes projections, lighting and music to bring a sculpture to life. The twelve-foot tall, 360° projection-mapped skull was created in collaboration with sculptor Josh Harker and premiered in 2014 at the world-renowned Burning Man festival. Since then, Shogyo Mujo has appeared at various locations and festivals, before recently taking up residency in Las Vegas at immersive entertainment and events complex, AREA15.

Shogyo Mujo sits just inside the front doors of the Las Vegas venue, which opened in September 2020.  Almost seeming to be alive with its bold all-encompassing projections, the giant, sculptural centerpiece sets an otherworldly, surreal tone for guests as they enter.

Technology behind Shogyo Mujo

Programmed and played back with Dataton WATCHOUT, the projection-mapped show utilises five Panasonic laser projectors and six speakers for immersive sound.  The 15-minute-long show created by BARTKRESA studio features vibrant animated scenes and an original soundtrack. 

"The combination of high-end design and technology creates a seamless experience rooted in art and light," explains projection designer extraordinaire, Bart Kresa. "At AREA15, Shogyo Mujo draws guests into the space, where they experience mesmerizing and innovative art."

Safety first

The installation took place in mid-2020, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. BARTKRESA studio prioritized safety, using an installation process that went beyond the prescribed COVID-19 safety measures. The biggest adjustment involved adding remote cameras at the event site. The installation team, which was deliberately kept to a minimum for safety reasons, used three Panasonic PTZ cameras, a Panasonic live-streaming video switcher and PTZ controller. The team could then set up a socially-distant workspace in the parking lot of the venue, accessing the camera feeds to both adjust the designs and program remotely. The new system allowed everyone to interact with the projectors and skull remotely in real time, which made the remote process feel more collaborative.

In addition, UV-C lighting, extensive use of PPE, and detailed contamination/decontamination protocols ensured that everyone was conscious of safety throughout the installation. From the remote interface development and content adjustments, to the installation, this system kept the BKS team safe onsite. In fact, BARTKRESA studio was honored to receive the Silver Stevie Award for Designing Safety into Events & Experiences for the safety protocols that they developed for installations, like AREA15.

Futuristic experience

Since its opening, many guests have described AREA15 as something from their imagination that has come to life. Images of the venue abound on social media, with Shogyo Mujo often the lead picture in each post. From the moment guests enter, Shogyo Mujo defines AREA15 as the destination for a unique, futuristic experience.

"BARTKRESA studio and AREA15 share a dedication to incorporating new technology to stimulate, inspire, and create unique innovative experiences. Shogyo Mujo at AREA15 truly is the beginning of a tremendous fantasy experience," concludes Bart Kresa.