Ayahuasca
Ayahuasca
A unique shamanic experience
Ayahuasca, a virtual reality experience created by director Jan Kounen, invites viewers to immerse themselves in a shamanic journey inspired by Ayahuasca rituals. Produced by Atlas V in co-production with Small and a_Bahn, this VR work premiered at the Tribeca Festival in 2019. Since then, it has established itself as a benchmark in the world of immersive works, travelling to more than 80 festivals and some 30 exhibition venues around the world.
An innovative exhibition for a total experience
More than just a VR experience, Ayahuasca has evolved into an innovative cultural exhibition project. In collaboration with Jan Kounen and cultural partners, we designed a turnkey exhibition that combines art, tradition and technology.
The exhibition includes :
- Exclusive archives: sketches and preparatory work by Yann Kounen.
- Cultural heritage: Recordings and traditional songs from Peru’s Shipibo-Konibo communities.
- Enriched narration: Extracts from documentary films to complete the experience.
A hybrid between virtual reality and an immersive exhibition
Ayahuasca offers several formats:
- VR 6 Dof: An interactive experience allowing viewers to move freely in a shamanic universe.
- 360° Video: A more accessible version adapted to different contexts.
- Dome Projection: A projection specially designed for planetariums and immersive spaces.
This work has been integrated into prestigious exhibitions such as :
- The High Museum in Amsterdam, in partnership with the Litfa Festival.
- The Virtual Arts Hub in Taipei and the Eye Film Museum in Amsterdam.
- The Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, as part of the Vision Chamanique exhibition curated by David Dupuis.
Une scénographie pensée pour une immersion collective
The exhibition’s scenography is based around a ‘maloca’, a central structure designed to accommodate 5 virtual reality viewers simultaneously.
Every detail of the space has been designed to prepare visitors for the VR experience:
- An enveloping soundscape.
- Explanatory videos and artistic sketches.
- An experience exit enriched by thematic elements, encouraging reflection on the spiritual journey experienced.
An experience designed for the spectator
Diversion has ensured that each visitor has a complete and enriching experience:
- Gradual introduction: The public is prepared for the experience through an educational and artistic pathway.
- Technical support: A dedicated team ensures that the VR sessions run smoothly and answers any questions the audience may have.
- Immersive exit: Narrative elements extend the experience to allow for in-depth reflection on the proposed journey.
A work of art that continues to travel
Today, Ayahuasca is presented as part of the Shamanic Visions exhibition at prestigious venues such as the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich, UK. Diversion continues to develop opportunities for this work, in collaboration with cultural institutions around the world.
Ready to transform your event with virtual reality?
Do you have an idea or project in mind? Contact us now to discuss your requirements and find out how we can create an immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression on your participants.