MBD is an award-winning immersive arts studio dedicated to the creation of experiences using 3D animation and games engine technology. Originally formed in 1997, MBD is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) that has created work using immersive technology since 2016.
MBD’s work focuses on socially important issues, and often highlights underrepresented voices. MBD has created VR work that highlights issues of climate change, modern migration, LGBTQIA+ activism, and the role of Caribbean, South Asian and South African troops in WW1.
MBD has presented work in the UK, Europe, America and Asia. MBD’s work has been viewed by hundreds of thousands of people, with multiple awards spanning four continents.
MBD also works on skills development within the cultural sector, including participatory activity, workshops, mentoring, training and consultancy. We are helping to re-imagine the future of arts and culture.
Get to know the artist
We asked MBD some questions to get to know them and their practice better.
What does the theme ‘Emergence’ mean to you/your practice?
Our work uses emerging technologies that are reshaping the ways we can create and share work. MBD is renowned for constantly challenging the boundaries of performance, and we share this ambition with festivals like Frequency.
What do you love most about being a part of our festival?
Festivals like Frequency bring together public audiences and arts professionals. The opportunity to come together, share and learn from everybody as they share and experience new work is enriching as an artist and as a person with a curious mind.
What would you like the audience to take away from experiencing your work?
Theatre Electric uses dark humour to explore serious issues through an accessible and enjoyable experience. I want people to laugh with each other, and then make positive change for themselves and each other.
How does your art connect with the local culture of Lincoln?
Frequency has become a part of the cultural heart of Lincoln. We want to continue to work with Frequency to bring challenge, reflection and joy to local audiences and artists alike.
What message or emotion do you aim to convey through your work?
Laugh, reflect and act. Theatre Electric is a serious call to action with a few good laughs along the way.
Could you describe the feeling you get when you see your art resonating with people?
The work we make takes months and sometimes years to perfect. Seeing people engage and respond is the thing that makes it all worthwhile.
Find out more about MBD
You can find out more about MBD by visiting their website, and you can follow them on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
