Exploring THE DELUSION: Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley’s Groundbreaking Artistic Vision
On a warm August afternoon, I had the privilege of meeting London-born artist Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley at Sybil, a unique space in the Kreuzberg neighborhood of Berlin dedicated to “weird gaming and speculative worlding.” At that time, she was preparing for her most ambitious exhibition, THE DELUSION, which will be showcased at the Serpentine North Gallery during Frieze London through January 18, 2026. Brathwaite-Shirley is renowned for her multifaceted skills in animation, filmmaking, painting, and performance art, but in this exhibition, she pushes the boundaries of immersive gaming experiences, centering on the archiving of Black trans histories. Transforming the gallery into a blend of haunted house and game engine, she invites you into an emotionally charged reality that necessitates interpersonal engagement as you navigate various quests.
The Concept and Execution of THE DELUSION
In an era where art galleries are beginning to recognize gaming as a legitimate art form, THE DELUSION represents a pivotal moment in this artistic discourse. Brathwaite-Shirley’s work employs low-poly aesthetics, reminiscent of early ’90s first-person corridor games, effectively resurrecting retro technology to create a rich, immersive experience. The artist blends personal narratives with community stories, integrating group-generated memories into the gameplay, thereby making each interaction deeply personal. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the horror, absurdity, and layered religious symbolism within this maximalist world, underscoring the artwork’s focus on the complexities of Black trans experiences. Tamar Clarke-Brown, Curator of Serpentine Arts Technologies, noted, “no one is really doing what she is doing,” highlighting the uniqueness of Brathwaite-Shirley’s approach to art and technology.
Games and Introspection: Highlights from THE DELUSION
Among the standout pieces in THE DELUSION is THE SOUL STATION (2024), where Brathwaite-Shirley reimagines the iconic club Berghain as an alternate reality. In this universe, societal transformation has eradicated globalized slavery, requiring visitors to make moral decisions that can influence lives. Another highlight, Get Home Safe (2022), immerses players in a horror-themed arcade setting, compelling them to navigate how to protect a trans person during late-night travels in Berlin. One of her early works, The Black Trans Archive (2020) (visit blacktransarchive.com), confronts players with stark messages, compelling them to acknowledge the artistry while wrestling with their discomfort. Brathwaite-Shirley’s immersive experiences provoke players to engage emotionally rather than passively, as she emphasizes, “YOU WILL NOT FEEL FORGOTTEN.”
The Intersection of Art, Community, and Culture
Brathwaite-Shirley’s work captures a distinctive voice that resonates with audiences. Clarke-Brown describes her art as bold, unafraid, and capable of bridging niche interests with broader cultural dialogues. This community-focused narrative is not just present in the art but also in its creation; Brathwaite-Shirley often incorporates voices and stories from her collective, bringing forth the potential of art as a communal experience. In an age where self-editing is commonplace, Brathwaite-Shirley’s willingness to confront uncomfortable themes around dehumanization, censorship, and hope strength her narrative and invites dialogue.
A Graphic Novel Influence: Below the Blue Line
The inspiration for THE DELUSION stemmed from a series of sketches Brathwaite-Shirley created in response to experiences surrounding online hate and societal issues. This led to her graphic novel, Below the Blue Line, which mirrors the transformative world of the gaming facets in the exhibition. The narrative imagines a scenario where every negative online comment emerges manifestly, forcing people to confront their realities in a dramatically altered society. The reactions of individuals within this world become crucial, leading to divides that echo current societal tensions. Brathwaite-Shirley’s innovative storytelling serves as both a critique and a platform for open discourse.
Engaging with Difficult Conversations
At the heart of THE DELUSION is the hope of fostering new tools for engaging with complex conversations that society often shies away from. “I don’t care if it’s a good art piece. If people leave saying, ‘what a beautiful show,’ that would make me sad,” Brathwaite-Shirley asserts. Instead, she seeks raw, genuine reactions—whether through laughter, anger, or catharsis as visitors navigate the challenges of their identities in the game. By blurring the lines between emotional engagement and gameplay, Brathwaite-Shirley’s work becomes a lens for grappling with uncomfortable yet vital societal conversations.
Conclusion: The Future of Game Art in the Gallery Space
Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley’s THE DELUSION is not merely an exhibition; it is an invitation to explore the potential of games as a transformative art form. Through her innovative approach, the artist challenges traditional narratives while ensuring that the stories of Black trans communities are preserved and amplified. Her work stands as a testament to the evolving nature of art, engaging with both technology and performance, as outlined by Hans Ulrich Obrist, artistic director of Serpentine Galleries. With exhibitions like these, the intersection of gaming and art opens new avenues for dialogue and understanding, making it an exciting time to witness this evolution in the art world.
For a deeper exploration of Brathwaite-Shirley’s work and ongoing projects, visit the Serpentine Gallery and blacktransarchive.com for insights into the groundbreaking narratives she presents.
