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The Experiment
Does an actor performing within a set of imaginary circumstances physiologically respond the same as a person experiencing similar events in the 'real world'? The discovery of Mirror Neurons suggests that the mind cannot differentiate the observed from the experienced.
In 2006, Natasha Tsakos decided to find out how her mind and heart responded while performing her show UP WAKE.
A team of neuroscientists led by Ted Zanto observed and recorded Natasha Tsakos' brain waves while she reenacted the show mentally.
Axial MRI of Natasha Tsakos' aka "Zero"' brain while reenacting the show mentally
UP WAKE Brain Experiment for The Dream Museum led by
TED ZANTO with HEATHER CHAPIN, CRAIG RICHTER and OLIVIER OULLIER
The Dream Museum was presented at Damien B. Contemporary Art Center, Bob Risse's private home during Art Basel and Sleepless Night Festival in Miami Beach
The same experiment was conducted by cardiologists at the Miami Children Hospital.
Part of the Dream Museum installation displays the matching of Zero's brain waves, heart beats and sound waves so you may witness how the emotional and mental frequency states of Zero align throughout his journey.
The experiment focuses on six specific sequences in UP WAKE entitled: "Breathing" (sound of Zero breathing through his suitcase), "Gun" (Zero breaking the fourth wall) , "My Hump" (a popular tune at the time), "Water" (Sound of water as Zero discovers his reflection), "Making Love" and "Apocalypse".
Natasha Tsakos' Heart Ultrasound while reenacting UP WAKE mentally. Show sequences appear on the bottom of the screen.
UP WAKE Heart Experiment for The Dream Museum conducted by SUSANA BARROSO & ELIZABETH WELCH
