An unusual virtual reality experience comes to Portland Art Museum

(NOVEMBER 18, 2022) "Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a plant? Perhaps a frog, a slug or an orchid-butterfly hybrid? Or maybe you’re not an organic lifeform at all!" That's what a new exhibit in Portland asks its visitors.

Now through February 2023, a part of Portland Art Museum's building in downtown Portland comes to life with a virtual reality art installation called "Symbiosis." The interactive exhibit is on tour from The Netherlands. Portland is the first stop in the U.S.

Each experience comes with a uniquely designed soft robotic suit that manipulates your body, transforms your posture and sensory perception of the "Symbiosis" world. Virtual reality sensors attached to your creatures’ suit reveal your post-human body. They allow you to play and move in the virtual world. Headsets are also equipped with special equipment that release smells in sync with each specific experience. And your sense of taste will be activated with vegetarian snacks designed by master chefs.

Each experience runs for about 45 minutes, 15 of which are in the virtual world. Up to six people can participate at a time. Tickets are $30 per person.

For tickets and more information: https://pamcut.org/screenings-experiences/symbiosis/