The Use of Immersive Light-Based Art for Well-Being

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of ‘Waiting Room - Immersive Art for Well-being,’ an exhibition of various dynamic light art installations that investigated the potential impact of this work on viewers’ sense of well-being in a mock healthcare setting. Research shows that exposure to art impacts human health, improving overall healthcare experiences, resulting in shortened hospital stays, improved recovery time, and reduced need for pain management. The purpose of this study was to determine if exposure to dynamic light art has an impact on overall well-being. Qualitative data were collected using electronic questionnaires associated with 11 different dynamic light art installations. Open-ended questions explored how participants perceived and valued the presence of and engagement with dynamic light art installations and captured their views on the potential benefit of exposure. Visitors took part in questionnaires to obtain feedback on user experience, the length of exposure/engagement, and the effect the experience had on them. Overwhelmingly, users reported a sense of “calm” and “peacefulness” after spending time with the dynamic light art. One hundred ninety-five responses were collected. This study allowed us to gain a better understanding of how dynamic light art may be used to ameliorate stress and anxiety in spaces where users are confined for periods, as well as identifying key areas for future research, such as particular aspects of the installations or sub-populations that may particularly benefit from this type of intervention. This investigation leads to further studies exploring how exposure to dynamic light art may impact patients, visitors, and family members in various healthcare settings to determine if the perceptions and experiences vary by type of installation. Additionally, this work will inform future explorations of adaptations to dynamic light art, i.e., dynamic and interactive technologies on viewer experience.