I am a visiting PhD researcher at CICANT, working at the intersection of visual arts, cognitive psychology and landscape visualisation. During my research stay, I was hosted by the Early Visual Media Lab (EVML), which provided invaluable institutional support, specialised infrastructure and access to literature that would otherwise have been unattainable.
A pivotal part of my time here was having the opportunity to engage in in-depth interdisciplinary consultations with EVML experts, exploring the history, sociology and cognitive perception of stereoscopy. Examining EVML’s archival treasures, such as original stereophotographs of the Moon from 1851, has also sparked inspiring new ideas for my future hyper-stereoscopic projects, beyond my current doctoral research. Furthermore, collaborating with researchers on cutting-edge VR environments has had a significant impact on the technological and curatorial concept for my upcoming interactive exhibition.
Above all, my time here was characterised by Professor Flores’s and the entire team’s exceptionally warm, welcoming and supportive approach, which has established a strong foundation for possible future collaboration.
As a PhD researcher in Art History specialising in 19th-century cosmorama exhibitions, I find my collaboration with the EVML deeply enriching. Accessing the lab’s dedicated archives and primary materials provides a precise technical and theoretical foundation for my study.
Furthermore, working alongside a multidisciplinary team offers fresh perspectives on my work and proves to be an invaluable learning experience. It has been genuinely rewarding to connect with such a broad array of scholars and projects through the lab.
Given that my field of research is relatively niche, it is particularly motivating to collaborate closely with colleagues who share these interests and have welcomed me so warmly into the team. This environment keeps my work sharp, focused, and continuously inspired.
My visiting experience at Lusófona University has been both academically rewarding and personally inspiring. I was particularly grateful for the opportunity to attend Professor Victor Flores’ course Media Art and Immersion, which provided me with valuable insights into the history of immersive experiences, the development of related technologies, and tthe rationale behind them. As my PhD research focuses on immersive media and VR experiences, the knowledge and perspectives gained from this course have greatly enriched my understanding and will continue to inform my research.
As a member of FilmEU, Lusófona University also offered excellent opportunities for academic exchange and networking. Participating in the WIRE seminar allowed me to connect with PhD researchers from different European institutions and learn about their diverse research interests and approaches. This experience broadened my academic perspective and helped me develop valuable connections within the European research community.
Beyond the university environment, Lisbon itself made my exchange experience truly memorable. With its pleasant climate, welcoming atmosphere, and wonderful cuisine, Lisbon is a highly liveable city where I felt comfortable and inspired. I greatly enjoyed exploring the city, experiencing its culture, and becoming part of its everyday rhythm. This visiting experience has not only contributed to my academic development but has also given me many meaningful personal memories that I will cherish in the future.