The experiential art is a relatively new term, in broad use since the early 2000s. It refers to art that utilises modern technology to expose visitors to the unique and interactive experiences and invite them not to be just spectators of art, but also participants in the creation and exhibition of it. In addition to technology, the recent scientific breakthroughs in the fields of psychology, neurology and physics also play an important role in this form of art.  Experiential art exhibitions and installations are usually organized in new environments beyond formal institutional settings such as established galleries and museums and are aimed at younger audiences that usually would not be interested in contemporary art.

The institution that contributed the most to the establishment and success of the experiential art in the second decade of XXI century is the Pace Gallery, which operates a network of 9 exhibition spaces in the United States, South Korea, China, United Kingdom and Switzerland.  In 2016, Pace organized the exhibition “Living Digital Space and Future Parks” which combined light, sound, and virtual reality into an immersive installation that exceeded expected attendance numbers and established a whole new approach to the way exhibitions are marketed.

Read more about Pace Gallery’s impact on experiential art at Artsy.