Deep Dive

Mercer Labs: NYC’s First (Truly) Immersive Museum

I’m sitting on a clear, swinging bench suspended in midair. All around me, grassy tunnels swirl and give way to millions of rocks — asteroids, or maybe grains of dirt? Could be either. Could be both. At Mercer Labs, the art is in the experience of the beholder. Your field of vision and sound dictates what the exhibit holds. Your levels of playfulness and curiosity determine the fullness of your visit. I was immediately drawn in, energized by the mystery of what the next curtained room or hidden corridor held. Mercer Labs, a new art and technology museum, is now open in the Financial District of New York City — in the iconic former Century 21 flagship space. A sand-art-generating robot combs the ground in circular patterns in this lunar-esque exhibit. Photo: Lisa Jaycox The museum is the brainchild of artist Roy Nachum, along with his wife and partner, Maia Nachum, and their circle of artists, architects, creators, and brand visionaries. Probably best known for his cover art of Rihanna’s 2016 Anti album, which earned him a Grammy nomination in 2017, Roy has also produced installations for Lebron James and NYC Mayor Eric Adams.  At Mercer Labs, the inaugural exhibition...