Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2010

“Today, through virtual space technology, it is possible to simulate the natural environment and social composition,” say the curators at NTT InterCommunication Center. “How, then, does the metaverse—a 3D virtual space constructed on the internet—differ from the real world, and what kinds of things can be envisioned for this space?” As part of its ongoing Metaverse Project, the museum is hosting a number of installations that utilize “internet architecture” to provide novel real-world solutions to a rapidly transforming information society. Among the projects on show are Hiroya Tanaka, Kotaro Iwaoka and Tomoki Hiramoto’s Open (Re)source Furniture Ver. 1 (pictured) and Tomohiro Tachi’s Architectural Origami.
NTT Intercommunication Center
Exonemo. Got Exists. Digital. Until Feb 28, free. Open Space 2009. Various media. Until Feb 28, free. Exploration in Possible Spaces. Various media. Until Feb 28, free (HS and under)/¥500 (general). 4F Tokyo Opera City Tower, 3-20-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 0120-144199. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm, closed Mon. Nearest stn: Hatsudai. www.ntticc.or.jp