Somaesthetic approaches in immersive art; (un) balance xr experience example

Abstract

This research aims to reveal the importance of the somaesthetic approach in immersive art. In other words, it aims to reveal that the perceptions of reality transform and change as a whole with the body while the immersive art events take place. Somaesthetics is a philosophy in which the body is important as a center of perception. Soma, meaning body, includes what is traditionally distinguished (and divided) into mind and body. So the Soma includes the union of body and mind. It is possible to understand the concept of soma when the term mind is conceived as an important verb or function of the body rather than as a separate substance. According to the somaesthetic philosophy, understanding the truth occurs through the body and sensory perception. Body experience is also important in the variability of perceptions. Art is the highest level in which the integrity of the body can be experienced. In immersive art, the body can perceive the virtual environment with various technological devices that can imitate human senses, and can provide artistic experience only with its body. The body can also transform into virtual bodies in some immersive art events with its immersive technology equipment. In this study, Elyne Legarnisson's XR experience (Un) Balance, case study was selected and analyzed. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the body has come to the forefront as a subject and an object in art. However, as bodily perceptions change, different experiences are experienced and different realities emerge as a result of the 21st century and immersive art stands before us.