With a background in film, theater and XR, Gorki Glaser-Müller contributes his expertise in storytelling and immersive technologies to the Visual Arena. We sat down to discuss his role at Visual Arena, his visions and thoughts about the future of media and storytelling.
Who is Gorki Glaser-Müller and what do you do at Visual Arena?
"I am a storyteller at heart," Gorki says with a smile. With a background in audiovisual communication, I write and direct my own projects across film, theater, and XR art. I have a passion for immersive experiences that envelop the audience in the art itself. At Visual Arena, I lead projects that fuse visual innovation with compelling storytelling. Our work encompasses various forms of XR, including Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality, often integrating interactivity, generative AI, and elements of the metaverse.
What potential do you see in storytelling to strengthen tomorrow?
"Storytelling is essential for our network and society. As we confront significant challenges—environmental, social, and technological—storytelling holds the power to foster empathy, understanding, and commitment. It can transform how people think and act. Good stories possess a primal ability to influence us; it's ingrained in our DNA."
How would you describe Visual Arena?
"For me, Visual Arena is like a sandbox," Gorki shares. "It's a playful platform where creativity is nurtured and you can learn skills that truly make a difference. It’s also a kind and inclusive space. By 'sandbox,' I mean that everyone gets 'sandy' here—creativity is contagious. When I first visited, I felt immediately inspired and welcomed, and I believe that spirit remains."
What are your strengths and unique skills?
"I have a talent for visualizing ideas and bringing them to life through film, performing arts, and XR. I possess a deep understanding of the possibilities that new immersive technologies offer, as well as a strong foundation in both ancient and modern storytelling. It’s about knowing what to convey, how to present it, and why it matters to the audience."
Is there a particular issue you are passionate about solving together with our partners?
"Absolutely. I believe Sweden needs a national strategy for new media in digital art and culture. Additionally, we aim to establish the first Swedish international XR festival—a platform that offers Swedish audience insight into global developments in this field. We are in a historic age of creativity, one that surpasses even the invention of the printing press, photography, and the gramophone. Today, we are reimagining and experiencing all these innovations in virtual and spatial realities."
"What inspires you most during the workday?"
"Synchronizing with my colleagues and enjoying a shared lunch is a highlight," Gorki laughs. "I love that my colleagues appreciate a good laugh. It fosters a sense of community and joy."
"Why should an organization work with Visual Arena? What can be achieved here?"
"What’s happening in virtual worlds, XR, and generative AI is revolutionary for large exhibitions—it's incredible! However, navigating this landscape alone can be challenging. Let’s explore these new possibilities together. That’s why you should come here."
With a passion for storytelling and a firm belief in technology's potential for social change, Gorki Glaser-Müller is committed to showcasing Visual Arena and Sweden in the realms of digital art and immersive technology. Do you have ideas or challenges you'd like to explore and solve? Get in touch!