Zeitgeist is a participatory artwork developed by STUDIO IO. The researcher/artists Dr Shama Rahman and Dr Olive Gingrich,used deep-learning algorithms to indicate creative ‘Flow’ mental states visualised on a holographic Pepper’s ghost display.

Based on real-time analysis of physiological brainwave data measured via an EEG headset, Zeitgeist determines whether audiences are in a Flow mental state - a state of increased creative stimulation, reduced stress and increased engagement. In her PhD, Rahman found a biomarker for the creative Flow state within experimental paradigms of creative performance. In his PhD, Olive Gingrich explored neuroart on holographic displays. With Zeitgeist these strands of research come together:

Zeitgeist analyses this data and represents Flow states as visual cues on a holographic display - a process called ‘nudging’. Lighter colours and more complex forms represent a heightened state of Flow. Darker colours and simpler forms represent lower states of Flow. These visual cues provide information to the participants on their creative stimulation in real time. Working with CNWL NHS Foundation Trust, University of Greenwich, Brunel University and NeuroCreate, Zeitgeist looks at facilitation and design principles for novel collaborative participatory art interfaces.