Formed by artists Ian Andrews, John Jacobs and Marco Fante, Subvertigo were a video collective that staged performances using a diverse collection of video equipment including cameras, video mixers, VCRs, effects devices, computers, oscilloscopes and home-made equipment.

This excerpt offers a window into the live visuals they created at techno dance parties, where images were mixed live with the music. An example of the collaborative, creative and ephemeral nature of the underground dance scene of the 1990s, the clip captures the experimental and psychedelic visuals that were an essential part of the rise of electronic music – a tentpole of an era where gear was evolving, and art forms were crossing over and innovating.

This excerpt draws from recordings made at Big Day Out, Watch Wyle U Dance, Mayday and other festivals and events, with music from prominent DJs of the era: Abel, Ming D, Jad McAdam, Hi-Shock, Nik Fish and Mijk Van Dijk.

Subvertigo performed over 50 live performances from 1992 until 1997.

Explore more of After Dark – a Deep Dive into Australian nightlife that draws on decades of material from the NFSA collection.