Soul Paint Uses XR to Foster Self-Reflection

Soul Paint offers a unique VR experience where 3D drawing meets personal reflection. Debuting at SXSW 2024, it’s the brainchild of Sarah Ticho and Niki Smit, brought to life with narration by Rosario Dawson. In this immersive journey, you’re invited to “discover, meet, and choreograph your emotions” using state-of-the-art technology. Imagine yourself as a 3D figure in an ethereal landscape, where you can paint across virtual space directly onto your digital representation.

The magic of Soul Paint lies in its blend of body-mapping and virtual reality, serving as a tool for exploring and understanding our emotions. Its goal is to “foster empathy and social connectedness” by allowing participants to witness and share their emotional journeys once complete.

I had the chance to experience this firsthand at the NewImages Festival 2025, diving into a 20-minute session through the XR Market. The adventure kicks off with a profound question: “Where are you feeling?” Initially unsure, I soon found the experience surprisingly spiritual. This nearly divine setting warmly invites you to express yourself physically and emotionally.

The process feels soothing and introspective. While my drawings won’t earn any awards, and I’m certainly not an artist, the activity felt just right for the moment. You can sketch over your virtual self and leave a voice message for others to discover—perfect for sharing when words might fall short.

Soul Paint acts as a virtual mirror, reflecting your inner self. While the experience is somewhat linear and fleeting, the sense of embodiment and player agency is compelling. It offers a fresh way to communicate with others, enriched by its thoughtful, meditative nuances. I look forward to more experiences like this in the future.

As of now, there’s no word on whether Soul Paint will be available for home use, but we’ll keep you posted with any updates.