By Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Visitors to Scottsdale Arts’ annual Canal Convergence, taking place Nov. 7–16, will experience a vibrant lineup of interactive, light-based artworks that explore the fusion of public art and performance.
This year’s theme, SHOWTIME, celebrates the dynamic between audience and performer through immersive installations, including Big Art’s “BIG TV,” according to a press release
“We’re thrilled to be presenting BIG TV at Canal Convergence this year, especially with the festival’s theme of SHOWTIME,” said Paul Magnuson, founder and “director of MacGyvering” at Calgary-based Big Art, in the release. “BIG TV isn’t just an installation — it’s an invitation for everyone to become part of the show.”
Big Art has previously exhibited at Canal Convergence with fan-favorite works such as The DOORS, The STARQUARIUM and The PORTAL. Known for blending retro and futuristic technology, the group creates large-scale, interactive installations designed to ignite imagination and wonder.
“BIG TV is part art, part stage, part giant toy,” Magnuson said. “By blurring the lines between art, audience and performer, we’re creating a space where playfulness fuels creativity and where every interaction changes the story.”
Other featured artworks at Canal Convergence 2025 include:
•“Octopoda” by Amigo and Amigo: A larger-than-life octopus sculpture with snare drums at the base of each leg. Visitors can create impromptu drum circles that trigger sound-activated lighting sequences.
•“Long Wave” by Pneuhaus: A 330-foot-long, 20-foot-tall inflatable light sculpture that explores motion and repetition through a continuous helical form.
•“Showtime” by Walter Productions: A returning favorite, this installation features marquee-style letters floating across the canal, combining flames, light and music in a fiery spectacle.
•“Stargate” by Chalk River Labs: An immersive projection sculpture that takes viewers on a cosmic journey through light and sound.
•“Parallel Flow” by Dina Fisher and David Howe: An interactive sound and light show activated by sensors and enhanced by nightly musical performances.
•“HD BPM” by MASARY Studios: A public-play instrument with illuminated drum pads that transform structures into a stage where light becomes music.
•“Pulse” by MattCreative: A series of suspended light rings encircling trees along the canal, pulsing in rhythmic patterns that reveal a hidden choreography of connection.
“This year’s Canal Convergence attendees will be amazed at all the unique and creative ways the public art installations embody the SHOWTIME theme,” said Jennifer Gill, deputy director for Canal Convergence. “Visitors can look forward to experiencing the dynamic between viewer and performer as they transform from one to the other, depending on which artwork they choose to engage with.”
