Tactical Space Lab is a research initiative focusing on the intersection of art, technology, and critical theory. It is conceived as a space to host, nourish, and nurture artistic practices and projects that critically explore emerging technology – particularly through innovation in the field of mapping and spatial representation – and was founded by Dr Josh Harle in 2013 as a platform for the continuation of doctoral research projects.

The space is intended to be flexible, with the primary aim to provide Sydney with a creative space focussed on critical artistic exploration of emerging technology. It combines the facilities and support of a hacker space, art studio, gallery, teaching space, and even occasionally game arcade.

The Lab is made up of a 100m² exhibition space (with roller-door access), plus a 150m² studio and residency space, providing for:

• exhibitions
• skills workshops (with educational partners)
• open studio and collaborative development
• local and international artist residencies
• presenting artists talks
• photographic studio space
• digital media and AR/VR related presentations (such as DorkBot)

The Lab is equipped with Oculus Rift DK1 & DK2, HTC Vive, Phantom 4 drone, digital projector, spare PC workstations, a 3D rendering workstation, a Wacom Cintiq screen, fold-out tables and chairs, IMU tracking devices, WiFi mesh network setup, various robots, stereo GoPro rig, 3D scanning tools, a solder station, piles of arduinos, raspberry pi zeros, professional photographic lighting, tripods, and backdrops, a critical theory library, digital media art library, a tool library, and a fridge of beer.

The Lab is a space for collaboration, experimentation, and learning!