Spanish artist Robert Cervera presents 'Hiddenware,' an exhibition at SPACE Ilford on January 31 that blends gaming, sound, and visual art. Three local gamers will perform live video game sessions accompanied by musicians playing a custom instrument made from PC liquid cooling tubes, creating real-time soundtracks based on the gameplay. The event runs from 4pm to 7pm, with a live stream on Twitch, and the exhibition remains open until April.
This exhibition matters because it reimagines the relationship between digital gaming and live performance, drawing a parallel to early cinema's live musical accompaniment. By turning unseen technological elements—like cooling tubes—into musical instruments, Cervera challenges audiences to consider the hidden materiality of digital culture. The project also highlights how local community spaces like SPACE Ilford can foster innovative, cross-disciplinary art that engages new audiences beyond traditional gallery visitors.