The Invisible Tide

Be transported to an unfamiliar place. At the Mason Studio Cultural Hub, a site-specific installation draws you out of the everyday, guiding you on a journey that resonates deeply with both mind and body. Rooted in spatial design and art, this installation emphasizes sensory extremes—light, sound, smell, and touch—creating an experience that feels both vaguely familiar and distinctly foreign.

Research on interior design’s impact on human senses shows that the built environment profoundly affects psychological well-being and cognitive-emotional responses. In the emerging field of neuroarchitecture, studies reveal that sensory elements—such as spatial arrangement, and texture—can influence mood, stress levels, and neural activity, suggesting that thoughtfully designed spaces can enhance mental health and emotional stability. (1, 2)

To immerse themselves in this research and experience it firsthand, visitors will remove their shoes and outdoor gear before entering. Stepping into the installation brings an immediate sensory impact, evoking a state of shock and awe. Gradually, the mind and body acclimate, shifting physiological states as the effects of light, sound, scent, and water are felt.

Throughout the exhibition, ticketed events will offer unique experiences, including guided group meditations, private viewings, and talks.

This exhibition is part of DesignTO Festival 2025.

(1) Güler, E. (2022). Body and the senses in spatial experience: The implications of kinesthetic and synesthetic perceptions for design thinking. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 864009. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864009

(2) Sztuka, I. M., Pohlmann, K., Sudimac, S., & Kühn, S. (2021). The living space: Psychological well-being and mental health in response to interiors presented in virtual reality. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23), 12510. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312510