The Awe Experiment

The Awe Experiment is a fascinating, free immersive art experience as part of World Science Festival Brisbane, that invites you to explore the elusive sensation of awe at Queensland Museum from March 21-30.

Massive trees. Soaring music. Mortal panic. The feeling of being connected to something bigger than ourselves. In the past twenty years or so, scientists have been fascinated by the effects of AWE – both in our lives, and on our brains. At the same time, humans are desperately seeking awe from every possible opportunity. From natural wonder to moral beauty, we’re all chasing that high.

Brisbane artists Counterpilot (the techno-troublemakers behind Truthmachine and Pigeon Fool) are staging a series of experiments to interrogate awe in all its forms – from the awesome, to the awful. With support from Queensland Brain Institute and other local scientists, investigators and instigators, these renegade local artists are inviting the public into their makeshift laboratory for World Science Festival Brisbane.

With slippery technical design and biometric sensors, you're invited to join in as either witness or participant* in an attempt to dissect the experience of awe in a new interactive experiment. Science-adjacent, determinedly explorative and restlessly curious, this is an experiment on artistic terms. There may be findings – or you might just get distracted by something shiny, as humans often do!

This is not a traditional scientific study but rather a playful, thought-provoking journey that celebrates awe’s wonder and complexity. Don't miss your chance to join in this truly unique experience, either as a particpant or an observer. 

Need to know - Particpants must be aged 15 yrs + whilst all ages can be an observer. Entry is free & drop-ins welcome.

Queensland Museum is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com