In this episode, Tabitha Rickard sits down with Ben Joseph Andrews, a pioneering New Media artist whose work explores immersive and interactive forms. Since 2016, Ben has been crafting multi-sensory installations that have captivated audiences both in Australia and abroad. With a background in film theory, Ben’s journey led him to the world of virtual reality, where storytelling takes a backseat to experience.

We delve into his groundbreaking project *Gondwana*, developed in Far North Queensland, and how a grant from the Ballarat Arts Foundation helped him expand his creative toolkit upon returning to Ballarat. From exploring motion misperception to uncovering a personal medical condition that deepened his interest in neuroscience, Ben’s work challenges norms and invites new ways of thinking about movement and perception.

Ben shares his passion for making cutting-edge art accessible in regional centres and highlights the vital role BAF plays in nurturing local talent. Tune in to discover how immersive art is more approachable than you might think - and how it’s transforming the Ballarat arts scene.

Follow Ben on Instagram: @benjosephandrews