Soul Paint is a unique VR adventure that blends 3D art with self-reflection.
Debuting at SXSW 2024, this innovative project, crafted by Sarah Ticho and Niki Smit and narrated by Rosario Dawson, invites you to explore and choreograph your emotions using immersive technology. In this captivating 3D space, Soul Paint empowers you to create designs on your virtual self within an ethereal environment.
By integrating body-mapping with virtual reality, the creators aim to nurture self-awareness and connect with the emotions of others. The experience encourages empathy by allowing you to share your journey at its conclusion.
I had the opportunity to try this firsthand during the NewImages Festival 2025 at the XR Market, spending 20 minutes immersed in this extraordinary experience. It starts with a powerful question: “Where are you feeling?” At first, it’s a concept that seems abstract, but as you delve deeper, the experience becomes almost spiritual. In this almost divine realm, you’re gently encouraged to express yourself physically.
The process is soothing and calming, fostering a sense of self-discovery. My artistic skills were far from award-winning, yet I created something meaningful to me in that moment. The ability to draw on your virtual body and leave a voice message at the end, which can be shared with others, is a beautiful way to communicate when words fall short.
Soul Paint serves as a reflective tool within VR, offering a limited yet profound experience of embodiment and personal expression. While its straightforward nature might seem lacking in depth, it compensates with thoughtful, meditative qualities. I sincerely hope experiences like this become more common.
There’s no word yet on a home release for Soul Paint, but we’ll keep you posted with any new developments.
