B!G ART 

The STARQUARIUM 

On display November 4–13, 2022

Calgary, Canada 

The STARQUARIUM is a one-of-a-kind, intergalactic aquarium. The main vessel is connected to a gateway through space and time, delivering flora, fauna, and other mysteries from faraway worlds. The “tank” captures the specimens for a short period of time so our scientists, and the general public, can observe these magical mysteries before they disappear back through the gate from which they came. This 22-foot high, 16-foot-wide mega-structure delivers custom 3D animated content via 560,000 video pixels and an array of intelligent lighting. You can view the entire installation in 360 degrees around the artwork and even underneath it. All visitors passing by, passing underneath, or viewing from a distance will be treated to video, lighting, and special effects. 

Biography 

A self-described “artistic charlatan,” Paul Magnuson of B!G ART believes his technical creations are less art and more experiments in alternative, interactive public entertainment. Each piece utilizes accessible, but hacked, consumer technology in unique combinations and unexpected situations to evoke surprise and wonder. Like moths to flames, people are attracted to the glitz and glamor of bright lights, video, lasers, fireballs, and other special effects, interrupting our regularly scheduled lives, and Magnuson wants to be the one who turns on the light. 

B!G ART was invited to participate in the 2022 Canal Convergence as a returning artist in celebration of our 10th anniversary. B!G ART first exhibited at Canal Convergence in 2021 with The DOOR(S).