Somnus

Exhibition Description

This project was conceived as a small, immersive set designed as a bedroom environment at UE University on Dessauer Straße, Berlin. Participants lie down on a bed and, through the use of a VR headset, enter a realistic virtual experience in which they appear to be asleep.

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Within the virtual space, the user “wakes up” but is unable to move, simulating the condition of sleep paralysis. The visuals are inspired by real accounts of people who have experienced this phenomenon, incorporating elements such as shadowy figures, distorted perceptions of reality, disembodied voices, and a growing sense of paranoia. Although the user may attempt to move their physical body, the VR experience maintains the same fixed position, reinforcing the feeling of being trapped. This dissonance between physical intention and virtual immobility intensifies the psychological tension and immerses the participant in the unsettling experience.

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Tools & Technologies

• TouchDesigner

• Ableton Live

• Adobe After Effects

 

Hardware

• VR Headset

• Beadroom environment set