BrightHearts

The BrightHearts research project is interdisciplinary research collaboration between artist and interaction-designer Dr George Khut and Dr Angie Morrow at the Kids Rehab Department, a Brain Injury Specialist, at The Children’s Hospital Westmead, Kids Rehab, in New South Wales, Australia.

With support from the Australian Network for Art & Technology, ‘Synapse’ arts-in-science residency program, and additional funding from the James N. Kirby Foundation, George Khut was able to undertake preliminary research and development work on the BrightHearts App.

The project’s long-term aim is evaluate the efficacy of George Khut’s heart-rate controlled interactive artwork to assist in the management and reduction of stress and anxiety experienced by children undergoing painful, recurrent clinical procedures.

Several pilot trials have now been completed, and a clinical trial of the app is scheduled to start in 2024-2025.