We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rowynn Dumont a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi ROWYNN, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

XR Therapeutics Phase One: Pioneering Accessible Therapy through Multi-Sensory XR

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is Phase One of XR Therapeutics, a research initiative I co-lead with Akshita Jain. Our goal is to explore how extended reality (XR) technologies can enhance focus and sensory integration for neurodivergent populations, starting with individuals with ADHD.

This project was born from a shared belief in the transformative potential of technology to create accessible, user-centered therapeutic tools. Phase One focused on using haptic feedback in a VR environment to investigate its effects on focus and engagement during building tasks. While we initially hypothesized that vibrational feedback would improve focus for individuals with ADHD, the findings revealed that it could contribute to sensory overload.

What makes this project so meaningful is its iterative nature. It’s not just about proving hypotheses—it’s about learning from the process and adapting to meet the needs of the people we aim to serve. The feedback we received from participants has been invaluable in shaping the next phase of the project. For instance, we plan to refine sensory customization options and improve the usability of VR interfaces, ensuring the program remains inclusive and effective.

This initiative represents the intersection of my passions for art, technology, and psychology. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to research that could make therapeutic interventions more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Even more, it highlights the power of collaboration and user-focused design in driving innovation and impact.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am an artist first and foremost—a storyteller using the lens of visual art, psychology, and technology to explore themes of ritual, memory, and human connection. My work has been showcased internationally, with highlights including my solo exhibition Dreams of Ether in Manhattan and participation in 100 Years of Kafka at DOX Contemporary alongside cultural luminaries like David Lynch.

As an artist, I embrace analog techniques, particularly the wet plate collodion process, to create deeply textured, imperfect works that echo the fragility and resilience of the human experience. My art is an invitation to reflect, connect, and see the beauty in imperfection.

Beyond the gallery, I expand my practice into research and innovation, currently exploring the intersection of extended reality (XR) and therapy. My project at The New School examines how immersive environments can support neurodivergent individuals, blending my passions for art, psychology, and technology to create accessible tools for healing.

What defines my work is its authenticity and multidisciplinary approach. I bring a unique perspective shaped by years of artistic exploration, curatorial projects, and academic inquiry. My mission is to make art that resonates deeply with people, offering not just aesthetic value but also emotional and psychological impact.

I want readers to know that my work is about breaking boundaries—whether it’s using 19th-century photography techniques to create modern narratives or harnessing XR technology to push the limits of therapeutic art. I hope to inspire others to view creativity as a force for transformation, both personal and collective.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Resilience has been a defining theme throughout my life and career. One of the most pivotal periods of my life came when I was just 15. I had been kicked out of my home and lived in a treehouse behind my school, trying to navigate survival while maintaining perfect grades. Despite the hardships, I persevered—so much so that my academic performance led to my nomination as a student ambassador to the UK, representing the state of Texas.

This experience was just the beginning of many trials. Over the years, I’ve faced unimaginable circumstances—being kidnapped, surviving malaria, and narrowly escaping trafficking, all while traveling and living in over 30 cities and countries. These experiences profoundly shaped my perspective and fueled my drive to create art that explores themes of resilience, memory, and transformation.

Even as I’ve faced barriers in academia and the art world as a neurodivergent individual, I’ve continued to achieve milestones like earning two master’s degrees and exhibiting my work internationally. Each challenge has taught me the value of adaptability, empathy, and the power of storytelling through art.

My resilience is not just about surviving but about transforming adversity into meaning. Through my work—whether it’s a photograph, a research project, or a written piece—I aim to inspire others to see that creativity and determination can overcome even the most insurmountable odds.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

NFTs have opened up new avenues for artists, allowing us to engage with digital art in unprecedented ways. They’ve redefined how we think about ownership, provenance, and accessibility in the art world. For me, NFTs are more than just a medium—they’re a movement that empowers artists to reclaim control over their work, connect directly with collectors, and experiment with the possibilities of technology.

I’ve had the privilege of being involved in several NFT projects, including hosting the Gucci Vault Art Space podcast in collaboration with SuperRare and curating the Women of Crypto Art x United Nations NFT Exhibition. These experiences revealed how NFTs can amplify voices and support causes that matter. For instance, we used the proceeds from some NFT sales to fund initiatives like trans rights and education for girls.

However, I also see the challenges. NFTs are often criticized for their environmental impact, accessibility issues, and speculative trends. I believe the future of NFTs lies in addressing these concerns—shifting toward sustainable blockchain technologies, educating new audiences, and focusing on projects with real cultural or social value.

For me, NFTs represent the intersection of art and innovation—a space I’m deeply passionate about. They’re not a replacement for traditional art forms but an expansion of what’s possible, creating opportunities for artists to tell stories in new, dynamic ways.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rowynndumont.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowynndumont
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowynn-dumont/
• Twitter: https://x.com/rowynn
• Other: https://bsky.app/profile/rowynndumont.bsky.social

Image Credits

Models:
Maggie Lalley, Mal Love, Roger Fojas, Viraag Desai, Julian Weiss, Nicki Jean, Eirik Maribaal