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Resonant Realities: Investigating the Nexus of Sound, Space, and Neuroscience
Sound is a fundamental force that sculpts our perception of space, time, and memory. Sound profoundly shapes how we perceive and remember spaces, and map environments. Sound is also a potent trigger for memory, as it can evoke vivid autobiographical memories. Today our Lasertalk will investigate into the interdisciplinary intersection of sound studies, cognitive neuroscience, and spatial acoustics to examine how auditory stimuli shape our lived realities. Advancements in 3D audio technologies redefine the ways we engage with soundscapes, for example in perception research, therapeutic applications, and artistic expression. Immersive auditory environments have been shown to enhance memory recall, reduce stress, and foster a sense of inclusion and well-being. In the words of the late neuroscientist Oliver Sacks: "Music, uniquely among the arts, is both completely abstract and profoundly emotional… it is the most direct and mysterious way to reach the brain". Composer Karlheinz Stockhausen, a pioneer in electronic and spatial music once said: "Sound should envelop and move around the listener, transforming their perception of time and reality." Beyond spatial mapping, immersive soundscapes have powerful effects on our emotions and mental states. Controlled studies show that engaging auditory environments can reduce stress and influence mood on a physiological level. Immersive audio can also modulate cognitive state and performance. Researchers are probing how continuous or discrete is our awareness of sound, as there might be sound processing before it enters consciousness. Artists are increasingly integrating neuroscience into their work to create installations that reflect the complexities of human cognition and emotion, for example to treat sound as a malleable material that can construct imaginary spaces for listeners, or to use soundscapes for memory recall, social inclusion and storytelling.
Key areas of our exploration will include: The interplay between sound, spatial perception, and cognitive memory systems. Cutting-edge applications of 3D audio in therapeutic and creative domains. The role of soundscapes in fostering psychological resilience, inclusivity, and emotional well-being. This Lasertalk invites a transdisciplinary dialogue among three researchers, composers, and sound artists, alongside audience engagement, to illuminate the profound interconnections between auditory perception, cognition, and the environments we inhabit. Bios: Giulia Vismara is an electroacoustic composer and researcher specializing in spatialized sound and immersive audio environments. Her work explores the interplay between sound, perception, and memory, focusing on how spatial audio influences cognitive and emotional responses. She has collaborated on interdisciplinary projects integrating music, technology, and neuroscience to create innovative soundscapes. Vismara’s compositions and research have been presented in international festivals, academic conferences, and artistic residencies. Her practice bridges artistic expression and scientific inquiry, revealing new dimensions of auditory perception. (www.giuliavismara.com) Axel Cleeremans is a professor of cognitive science at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and a leading researcher in consciousness studies. His work focuses on how the brain processes sensory stimuli, particularly sound, and the mechanisms underlying implicit learning and neural plasticity. As a director of the Consciousness, Cognition & Computation Group, he explores the intersection of perception, memory, and awareness. Cleeremans has published extensively on cognitive neuroscience and artificial intelligence, contributing to our understanding of how auditory experiences shape conscious thought. His interdisciplinary approach connects psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy, shedding light on the complex nature of human perception. (https://axc.ulb.be) Brona Martin is an electroacoustic composer and sound artist whose work focuses on immersive soundscapes and their emotional and social impact. Using field recordings and electroacoustic techniques, she creates compositions that explore themes of place, identity, and community. Her research examines how sound can evoke memories, foster inclusivity, and contribute to well-being through artistic and therapeutic applications. Martin has presented her work internationally in sound art festivals, exhibitions, and academic settings. Her practice integrates composition, research, and public engagement, emphasizing the role of sound in shaping human experiences and interactions. Peter Friess (artist name Petermfriess) has a background in self-organising social systems (Ph.D.) and space technology. Besides his activities in ICT innovation, he is an interdisciplinary artist and researcher with an interest in humanity between present and future. His work has been shown around the world at exhibitions and festivals. (www.petermfriess.com) Alexandra Dementieva is a multimedia artist based in Brussels and the initiator and main organiser of the Lasertalk Brussels. (https://alexdementieva.org) |
