Pause 9

Pause 9 is an immersive installation created in collaboration with Deep Living Lab and The Manas Collective, translating the principles of The Four Sacred Portals™ into a sensory experience of reflection, stillness, and connection. Through projected imagery, sound, and guided prompts, participants are invited to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with the intelligence of the heart.

Since its debut in summer 2025, Pause 9 has traveled internationally, with installations in Minneapolis, Egypt, and New Mexico. The project continues to evolve as both a living artwork and an exploration of how immersive experiences can cultivate presence and belonging.

As Open Flame, we have contributed to the project from its earliest stages. Ella served as Video Artist and Concept Designer, shaping the visual language of the experience, while Dominik documented installations and gathered footage that became the foundation of the documentary film. Together, we continue to support the project through filmmaking, documentation, and creative collaboration.

See the documentary we made for the project below.