The dreamachine, was conceived by artist and writer Brion Gysin sometime in the early 1960's, after reading William Grey Walter's book, The Living Brain.

Brion Gysin was a close friend of William S. Burroughs (who often receives credit for the invention) and Burroughs's "systems adviser" Ian Sommerville was called upon to produce the machine for them.

The dreamachine produces pulses of light between 8-13 Hz, the frequency of alpha-waves in the brain during the dream stages of sleep. The pulsating light stimulates the optical nerve and alters the brain's electrical oscillations.

Viewed with the eyes closed, the viewer experiences bright, complex swirling patterns of colour behind their closed eyelids.

Part of the worldwide NAKEDLUNCH@50 celebrations, marking the 50th anniversary of the first publication of William S. Burroughs’ groundbreaking novel. There is a programme of live events and films taking place on Sunday 13th September, at the Cube Cinema, Bristol.

Tuesday 8th - Saturday 19th September

Admission free

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