Designing for Aesthetic Awe: Self-Transcendent Experiences with Generative AI and Augmented Self-Reflection
Jurgis Peters, Mila Bujić, Riku Roihankorpi, Juho Hamari
Empirical Studies of the Arts April 2, 2026 DOI: 10.1177/02762374261437049 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Within-subjects experiment Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 40 |
| Population | Participants in a within-subjects experiment using a generative AI interactive installation |
| Intervention | Generative AI enabled interactive installation |
| Key findings | The authors report two psychological pathways to awe: a 'Connection-Driven' pathway using realistic, narrative-led stimuli, which fostered higher self-immersion and activated the Connectedness facet of awe, and a 'Vastness-Driven' pathway using abstract, unpredictable stimuli, which activated the Vastness and Accommodation facets despite lower self-immersion. Self-Transcendence, Engagement with Beauty, and Neuroticism positively correlated with reported awe. |
Abstract
Previous research has often relied on passive observation of external phenomena when exploring technology-mediated self-transcendent experiences, overlooking co-creative, embodied interactivity. This study addresses this gap by investigating how aesthetic awe can be intentionally designed for using a novel Generative AI enabled interactive installation that augments a participant's self-reflection in real-time We conducted a within-subjects experiment (N = 40) with four scenarios, each employing a distinct artistic design strategy. Experiences were evaluated using psychometric instruments for awe, self-immersion, and individual traits, alongside subjective impact ratings. Findings suggested two psychological pathways to awe: a ‘Connection-Driven’ pathway, utilising realistic, narrative-led stimuli, fostered higher self-immersion and activated the Connectedness facet of awe; and a ‘Vastness-Driven’ pathway, employing abstract and unpredictable stimuli, activated the perceived Vastness and Accommodation facets of awe, despite lower self-immersion. Furthermore, individual traits were significant predictors of the experience, with Self-Transcendence, Engagement with Beauty, and Neuroticism all positively correlating with reported awe experience.