Physical Light as a Metaphor for Inner Light

TL;DR

This paper proposes a visual system using optics principles to represent psychological states and processes, enabling artistic, therapeutic, and educational exploration of inner experiences and interpersonal dynamics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel metaphor-based system linking physical light principles to inner psychological states, with ongoing art and VR projects for visualization and therapy.

Findings

Art installation and VR projects depict inner states and relationships.

The system provides a concrete language for intangible psychological concepts.

Potential clinical and educational applications for mental health and understanding.

Abstract

The metaphor between physical light and inner light has a long history that permeates diverse languages and cultures. This paper outlines a system for using basic principles from optics to visually represent psychological states and processes such as ideation, enlightenment, mindfulness, and fragmentation versus integrity, as well as situations that occur between people involving phenomena such as honest versus deceptive communication, and understanding versus misunderstanding. The paper summarizes two ongoing projects based on this system: The Light and Enlightenment art installation project, and the Soultracker virtual reality project. These projects enable people to depict their inner lives and external worlds including situations and relationships with others, both as they are and as they could be, and explore alternative paths for navigating challenges and living to their fullest potential. The projects aim to be of clinical value as therapeutic tools, as well as of pedagogical value by providing a concrete language for depicting aspects of human nature that can otherwise seem elusive and intangible.