UnionDocs

UnionDocs, a center for documentary art in Williamsburg, presents, produces, publishes, and educates. Through visual experimental journalism, politics, activism and poetry, they tell stories about the intricacies of human experience. Research from their website, an interview with the Art Director, and various online media archives informed our understanding of the collaborative nature of UnionDocs and inspired the realization of this informal expression in a virtual reality format. Through this virtual reality experience, we hope to capture the energy and networked culture within the walls of the organization.    

Traveling from the streets of Williamsburg, one encounters a bright pink light accompanied with a humming energy. As you ascend the carpeted steps and enter the kitchen, the color shifts to yellow. A notebook placed on the counter is the focal point within an otherwise blank space, and when approached, a flower blooms from the center as a quote from the co-art director introduces the initial moment of engagement. The sequence continues as you turn and enter the conference space, yellow becomes orange and the understanding of UnionDocs’ narrative continues to grow. Ascending the exterior courtyard stairs, you engage with the outdoor screen, which reveals further insight into UnionDocs’ diverse community of activist artists, experimental media-makers, dedicated journalists, big thinkers, and local partners. Continuing through the backyard, you encounter a picnic table with a wine bottle and two glasses. Here, the mood and affect of their community screening events is embodied through audio and visual energy. The experience concludes by moving into the interior screening room. Here, a final film plays and you become immersed within this alternate reality of empowerment, a metaphor of UnionDocs transformative mission.