The Mobile Journeys national initiative grew out of a recognition that the mobile phone will become  increasingly important in modern culture in the coming years. In 2005, over 70% of Australians own a mobile and the sophistication and capabilities of handsets and networks are growing at an incredible rate. Experts predict that in the next five years, accessing the internet and using the mobile phone for information and entertainment as well as just communication will be the norm. Through a series of workshops and forums throughout 2005 & 2006, Mobile Journeys asks, "Are we at risk of being left behind?".

Many mobile phone users have no idea about the higher-end functions of their handset, much less about how to go about creating a wallpaper, ringtone, or discovering a new way to share pictures with their friends. Demonstrating how easy it is to play with and get more out of the mobile phone, the program throughout 2005 focused on developing content and exhibition possibilities with a range of national and international partners and guests.

Mobile Journeys 2006 delivered an exhibition of portable artworks created by eight of Australia's best known and emerging artists to both inspire you and challenge the way you think about and use your phone. These artworks include lively animations of 'possessed media' where the mobile phone has a life of its own and humorous encounters with sock puppets; an exploration of breaking up due to mobile phone miscommunications and a game to play only when extremely bored; a mesmerising roller coaster ride of 3D abstraction and music and a gentle and revealing narratives of place and events in our collective memory.

During the exhibition the videos, games and wallpapers were available for free distribution to private devices such as mp3 players, PDAs and mobile phones, via an Aura Hypertag Billboard. Audiences could take mobile art from the State Library home with them, from Mobile Journeys' artists: Ian Andrews, Rebecca Cannon, Chris Fullham, Tina Gonsalves, Ian Haig, Shane Ingram, Megan Heyward and Mark Simpson. 

Mobile Journeys is a national arts initiative exploring the creative potential of mobile devices and fostering the development of Australian mobile culture. It has been developed by a consortium of partners: dLux MEDIA ARTS, AIMIA and ANAT. Mobile Journeys 2006 exhibition was generously assisted by AURA DIGITAL, MOTOROLA, and THE STATE LIBRARY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA.

The Mobile Journeys Consortium consists of a range of national organisations that are supporting artists and practitioners to develop skills in mobile content creation. Each consortium member has brought their own skills, resources and expertise to the table to help put together this program. The result is a comprehensive networked program with a national focus. The Consortium members are ANAT, dLux Media Arts, m.Net Corporation and AIMIA (Australian Interactive Multimedia Industry Association).

Websites

www.dlux.org.au/mobilejourneys/