Written by Sara Spencer
On September 14, 2026, EDGE hosted a Nexus at Gat Point Charlie Hotel, in collaboration with José Fernando Andrade, founder of INNATIVE lab, to explore an intriguing question:
What happens when BCIs (brain-computer interfaces) become a medium for artistic expression rather than simply a tool for analysis?
Attendees were welcomed into a relaxed bar atmosphere that encouraged conversation, connection, and the exchange of ideas. After a brief introduction and recap by EDGE member Corinna Kühnapfel, José Fernando Andrade introduced his work with BCIs, not just as an instrument of analysis, but as a creative medium.
With a background in performance art and dance, Andrade founded INNATIVE lab to explore the intersection of immersive technologies and performance art using neurotechnology. Equipped with EEG (electroencephalography) headbands, Andrade and his performance partner demonstrated the capabilities of BCIs through an immersive audiovisual act.
Utilizing these BCIs, real-time recordings of the performers’ brainwaves were captured. The data were translated into a series of responsive audiovisual displays, in which concentration and intentional control of their neural activity impacted the output. Their brainwaves synergized in these visuals, dancing off one another to create entirely new effects. Thought became data, data became art, and the visual form, in turn, deepened the performance.
After the demonstration, Andrade discussed how neurofeedback workshops for companies and institutions can enhance intuition, health, and collective dynamics. To demonstrate, attendees were invited to explore this technology for themselves.
I personally engaged with the BCI with two of my fellow members, both of whom I had met that evening. Together we faced the same audiovisual display, attempting to create our own art. To my surprise, it took more control, focus, and cooperation than I would have expected. It was not just a matter of wearing a headset and bearing the results together, but rather collaborating and synchronizing our brain activities to achieve the desired effects. But, in turn, this combined effort strengthened our bonds, encouraging our collaboration on a neural level as the frequencies of our brains came together in colorful and entrancing displays.
Ultimately, this Nexus explored connection – both in how our brain waves intertwine to create art and how our community comes together to exchange ideas and push boundaries.
Be sure to follow EDGE on Instagram and become a member to stay informed about upcoming events and future Nexuses.
