You’re warmly invited to a preview of Spectral, a new work-in-progress by Melbourne-based audio-visual and laser artist Vijay Thillaimuthu, developed during his R|Artist Residency: Urban Ecologies.

Presented by SCCA as part of The Refinery, in partnership with the Creative Ecologies Research Cluster (CERC) at UniSC, Vijay’s project explores the hidden electromagnetic environments that permeate contemporary urban life. Drawing on field recordings captured from electrical and networking infrastructure, the work reveals an omnipresent yet largely imperceptible layer of the built environment: electromagnetic radiation.

Using custom-built recording devices, modular synthesis and real-time visualisation systems, Vijay transforms raw electrical data into an immersive audio-visual composition. Sound and image are generated from the same underlying source, voltage, creating a multisensory experience where multiple expressions of energy unfold simultaneously.

Developed specifically for UniSC’s CAVE2 advanced visualisation system, the work envelops audiences within a 320-degree visual display and spatialised sound, allowing participants to experience the city’s invisible infrastructures as dynamic, living systems. The project invites reflection on the environmental, cultural and social implications of our increasingly electrified world, and asks how emerging technologies might be used not just for efficiency, but for critique, imagination and rethinking urban futures.

Following the screening, an artist talk with Dr Leah Barclay will offer insight into Vijay’s creative process, his use of electromagnetic recording technologies, and the potential of immersive media to foster dialogue around urban ecologies, sustainability and community engagement.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, 26 February 2026
Time: 5pm for 5:30pm start

Location:
The CAVE2, H Block
University of the Sunshine Coast
90 Sippy Downs Dr, Sippy Downs QLD 4556

Free RSVP - Booking Essential

About Vijay Thillaimuthu:

Vijay Thillaimuthu is a Melbourne based audio-visual and laser artist informed by the rich history of sound synthesis. His work develops multisensory experiences where sound and image are derived from the same underlying source. Vijay Thillaimuthu has presented work extensively, nationally and internationally, including for the Melbourne International Film Festival, The Brisbane Powerhouse, The Banff Centre, Zürich University of the Arts, Seoul Arts Centre and the Tokyo Festival of Modular

Accessibility:

Please note, some areas of the event will feature low lighting.

We encourage you to reach out to us if you have any questions to ensure your experience is enjoyable and accessible hello@therefinerysunshinecoast.com

Parking Details:

UniSC is a regulated parking zone from 8am–6pm. You can learn more about fees here.

Parking locations closest to The CAVE2 are P10 and P11 on the parking and amenities map.

R|Artist Residency: Urban Ecologies is delivered by SCCA as part of The Refinery, in partnership with the Creative Ecologies Research Cluster at UniSC.

Supported by Major Partners, Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, and Sunshine Coast Council through the Regional Arts Development Fund.

Contact the host of WORK IN PROGRESS SHOWING - Vijay Thillaimuthu