HEARTSYNC is a creation by artist and researcher Nino Basilashvili, developed since 2018. The installation has previously been presented at events such as the Dutch Design Week, Carré Amsterdam (Studio DRIFT), De Effenaar, and NPO Radio 1. The residency at Katoenhuis marks a new phase in the artistic and social exploration of the installation and offers a platform for collaborative research with members of the Medical Delta Research Group “Health Promotion with Arts and Culture” (Ontzorgen met Kunst en Cultuur), including Julia Peters and Joost Oude Groeninger (Erasmus MC), Julian Schaap (Erasmus University Rotterdam), and Janine Stubbe (Codarts Rotterdam and Erasmus University Rotterdam).

In sessions of 10 people, heart rate synchronization is experienced live. Participants wear a sensor (earclip) and are guided through a soundscape and voice-over, encouraging them to slow down and breathe deeper. As the breath and heart rates align, individual light circles on the floor transform into complex geometric patterns, representing the group rhythm. The installation literally shows what it means to be in connection as a group.

During the residency in August and September 2025, HEARTSYNC will be further developed through participatory sessions with anyone who wishes to take part (local residents of Delfshaven, immersive art enthusiasts, researchers, Rotterdam locals, and curious individuals). The focus will be on the role of technology and ritual in enhancing collective well-being. In addition to the sessions, a short documentary and research report will be developed.

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EXPERIENCE HEARTSYNC

Join a Test Session (FREE)

· August 16 (Saturday)

· August 22 (Friday)

· August 30 (Saturday)

· September 5 (Friday)

Duration: 30 minutes (approximately)

Number of people: 10

Slots: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Register here 

More info

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The development of HEARTSYNC is made possible by the Stimuleringsfonds.

Partners: The Art of Living Foundation Netherlands, Poppodium Effenaar, Eigen Thermen Resort, and Kunstenaarsontwikkelplatform (KOP).

Collaboration with: y=f(x) Lab (creative technology studio), Laura Papke (sound artist), and Ruben Doorn (data scientist).

Research in collaboration with: 

Creating 010 (Hogeschool Rotterdam) and researchers Julia Peters, Joost Oude Groeninger (Erasmus Medical Center), Julian Schaap (Erasmus University),  Janine Stubbe (Codarts Rotterdam & Erasmus University) and Mariska Kret (Leiden University).

Photo credit: Clara Gugus