The Bats Project: Videogame Batwalks & Workshop

How do videogames shape the way we think about bats? 

Join artist Nestor Pestana for a three-day hands-on workshop exploring how bats are represented in videogames, and how we might imagine different encounters between bats and players. 

Bats often appear in videogames as frightening creatures, monsters or enemies to be defeated. Through a guided videogame batwalk, you will experience one of these virtual encounters before building a physical prototype that proposes a new way for bats and players to meet. 

No specialist gaming, art or design experience is required. All materials and equipment will be provided. 

Selected workshop outputs may be developed further by Nestor for the exhibition New Dark Aesthetics: The Bats Project at Orleans House Gallery in May 2027. Participants whose work is selected will be appropriately credited.  

Dates and times 

Tuesday 25 August
One-hour session at a pre-arranged time (you will be contacted later to arrange this). Participants will meet their working partner and take part in a guided videogame batwalk using the artist’s equipment. 

Wednesday 26 August, 10am to 5pm
Group introduction, brainstorming and prototyping. 

Friday 28 August, 10am to 5pm
Finalising artefacts, sharing reflections and closing the workshop. 

Who is it for? 

Young people aged 18–22. 

The workshop is limited to 10 participants, who will work in pairs. 

How to apply 

Complete the The Bats Project: Workshop Registration by Friday 21 August 2026. 

Before the workshop starts, please watch this short documentary about bats

Elden Ring: Standard Edition (videogame), 2022. FromSoftware. A giant bat prepares to attack the player. 

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach (videogame), 2025. Kojima Productions. A swarm of Chiral Bats attack the protagonist Sam. 

Practical information 

There will be a one-hour lunch break on Wednesday and Friday. Please bring a packed lunch or purchase food from the café beside the Coach House. 

New Dark Aesthetics: The Bats Project is supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (UK Branch) through the Gulbenkian Exhibitions Fund.