Members’ Gallery
David Bobier and Jim Ruxton:
Transmuting Nature
January 16th - February 22nd, 2026
Opening Reception: February 13th, 2026, 7-9PM
Image Credits: Courtesy of the artists.
About the Exhibition
Transmuting Nature considers ways of expanding or accentuating our perceptual relationship with aspects of the natural world we inhabit. In response to our growing detachment from our earthly host and its limitless bounty of sensorial offerings this work endeavours to sensitize the viewer’s experience to natural phenomena through an emphasis, and in some cases, rejuvenation of the senses.
In exploring sensory transformation of language, information and perception from one modality to another it prompts consideration of multiple senses as channels of communication and exchange. With a focus on inclusive and adaptive technologies there is a potential of expanding art-making practices and investigating new experiences of sensory accessibility for audiences of all abilities. Breaking down intellectual, emotional and physical barriers are essential to offering greater diversity and exchange of artistic ideas and experiences.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
David Bobier is a distinguished media artist, curator, and researcher based in London, Ontario. As a self-identified hard-of-hearing artist and parent to two Deaf children, his lived experience deeply informs his creative and advocacy practice. Bobier has dedicated his career to rethinking how art can be made, experienced, and accessed by Deaf, disabled, and sensory-diverse communities. He is the founder and director of VibraFusionLab, a multimedia, multisensory studio that researches and develops vibrotactile technologies as creative media.
Under his leadership, VibraFusionLab has emerged as an international leader in accessible arts practices and inclusive design. As an artist, Bobier has presented work in over 18 solo exhibitions and 30+ group shows across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Central America. His practice explores vibration, sound visualization, sensory experience, and the intersection of technology and disability culture.
Jim Ruxton is a Hamilton-based media artist, engineer, and innovator whose work bridges electronics, installation, performance, and multisensory design. With a background in electrical engineering from the University of Ottawa and arts training from OCAD University, Ruxton blends technical precision with artistic experimentation.
Ruxton is the founder of Cinematronics, a studio recognized for creating complex interactive systems, kinetic sculptures, lighting environments, and special effects for film, theatre, dance, and contemporary art. He is also the co-founder and former Program Director of Subtle Technologies, a long-running festival dedicated to fostering dialogue between art, science, and technology. His collaborative approach has led him to work closely with artists, performers, and researchers across disciplines, contributing to innovative projects that challenge conventional sensory experience. A recipient of multiple awards — including a Hamilton Arts Award and the Dora Mavor Moore Award — Ruxton continues to influence the field of media art through his commitment to experimentation, accessibility, and cross-disciplinary creative practice.
