Soul Paint Uses XR to Inspire Self-Reflection

Soul Paint offers something truly unique in the VR landscape, merging 3D drawing with a journey of self-exploration. Unveiled at SXSW 2024, this intriguing project by Sarah Ticho and Niki Smit, featuring narration by Rosario Dawson, allows participants to explore and choreograph their emotions using immersive technology. As a virtual 3D entity in a celestial environment, Soul Paint provides tools to draw across the digital space onto your virtual form.

Employing a combination of body-mapping and virtual reality, the creators aim to help users delve into and better understand their emotions. The main goal is to nurture empathy and forge social connections by witnessing others’ experiences. At the journey’s conclusion, you can opt to share these feelings, creating a bridge of understanding.

During the NewImages Festival 2025, I engaged in a 20-minute hands-on session through the XR Market. The experience begins quite provocatively, prompting you to consider, “Where are you feeling?” While initially uncertain about my answer, I quickly realized Soul Paint’s spiritual ambiance. This otherworldly setting invites you to express yourself physically and freely.

The subsequent moments are tranquil and soothing, facilitating a sense of self-actualization. Despite my modest artistic skills, the act of drawing fulfilled a need. The platform allows you to sketch on your virtual body and record a voice note at the end, offering a heartfelt way to share when words fall short.

Soul Paint functions as a virtual mirror, reflecting back your innermost thoughts. While limited as a linear experience, it excels in creating a deep sense of embodiment and player choice. It presents a novel way of communicating with others, enriched by thoughtful, almost meditative nuances. I look forward to seeing more creations like this in the VR space.

There’s no word yet on a home release for Soul Paint, but stay tuned for updates.