This data sculpture visualises neural activity with advanced technology. From reducing stress to boosting emotional resilience, ‘Sense of Healing’ demonstrates how art can profoundly influence therapeutic and emotional wellbeing.

Refik Anadol, Sense of Healing: AI Data Sculpture A, AURORA Evening of Discovery, July 2022
Refik Anadol’s project, Sense of Healing, stands at the forefront of the intersection between art and science, an area offering transformative possibilities for healing. As holistic approaches to mental and emotional health gain increasing focus, this AI-driven data sculpture, commissioned by Ikona, a cultural impact venture under Impact One, merges neuroscience, art, and advanced technology to create a multisensory experience scientifically proven to enhance relaxation and wellbeing.

Refik Anadol, Sense of Healing: AI Data Sculpture A
Sense of Healing is a software-based artwork that emerges from Refik Anadol Studio’s long-term research into creating meditative art based on neurological data. Using cutting-edge visualisation tools, the artwork addresses fundamental questions about the brain’s architecture through datasets gathered via EEG sensors, fMRI, and DTI imaging techniques. The artwork’s aim is to promote mental health through an understanding of the brain’s architecture.

Courtesy of Refik Anadol Studio
Using the impact of sensorial experience to highlight the variety of subjective states of wellbeing, Anadol developed the full narrative of Sense of Healing through five diverse and unique chapters. Each edition corresponds to one of the artwork’s chapters, visualising the complexity of different neural landscapes based on the data collected. These visual representations present a diverse range of organic forms in motion:
- Brain Data Flow – Depicts mercurial and mirrored folds.
- Parametric Memories – Features smooth sculptural formations.
- Neural Clouds – Shows granular compositions.
- Neural Landscapes – Represents topographical features like mountains and plains.
- Neural Fluid Dreams – Exhibits overlapping, textured layers.

Each chapter not only represents a unique aspect of the human brain but also explores the impact of positive mental states on neurological processes. This offers a visual meditation on the interconnectedness of mind and body, providing viewers with an immersive experience that combines art, science, and technology in exploring the complexities of human emotions and healing.
“The whole idea behind the artwork is to use art, science, and technology to reinvent neurotherapeutics and create new ways of healing through watching and experiencing the piece.” – Refik Anadol

Unicef Summer Gala, Capri, July 2022
Commissioned by Ikona for UNICEF’s fourth annual Summer Gala and first unveiled at the Aurora Institute’s ‘Evening of Discovery’ mental health gala, these events underscore the artwork’s dual role as both a cultural masterpiece and a tool for social good. Additionally, Sense of Healing has been featured in other evens, such as Korea Blockchain Week and Gateway Miami at Art Basel.

Aurora Evening of Discovery

Gateway Miami

Korea Blockchain Week
Art offers more than just visual enjoyment—it has real benefits for our mental, emotional, and physical health. Its value as a way to express ourselves and connect with others is well-known. Recently, research has started to reveal how art can also heal us. Studies confirm that both making and experiencing art can greatly improve our mental and emotional wellbeing.
For instance, exposure to art can notably reduce stress levels, with measurable decreases in cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Immersive art experiences like Sense of Healing not only enhance relaxation and promote mindfulness but also create calming environments that aid in recovery and foster emotional connections, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.
Displayed in galleries, healthcare facilities, or public spaces, this AI-powered masterpiece encourages calm, mindfulness, and connection. By merging data precision with artistic emotion, Sense of Healing pioneers new opportunities for creating therapeutic environments and enhancing holistic wellbeing.
Since 2021, Impact One has collaborated with Refik Anadol to blend art, technology, and culture, driving significant change by positioning art at the heart of healing.
Read more:

Machine Simulations: Life & Dreams by Refik Anadol, Image courtesy of Hanwha LIFEPLUS

Winds of Yawanawa, Image courtesy of Thomas Zikos represented by Mia Dorier for Scorpios
Refik Anadol is an internationally renowned media artist, director, and pioneer in the aesthetics of machine intelligence. Refik has broken sales records in the NFT and digital media space, and his site-specific audio/visual performances have been featured at iconic museums. Anadol’s commitment to integrating art and technology positions him as a transformative figure in the contemporary art world.