Ananta Sharma, a creative technologist focusing on "neuroaesthetics and neurocognitive immersivity", is among the first group of six innovators announced for this year’s cohort. BEYOND Studio is recognised as a leading UK gathering for those working at the intersection of creativity, research, and innovation.
Nominated by Pod Bluman, Sharma's work involves creating immersive technology installations that stimulate human senses, using neuroscience to understand cognitive decision-making and build participative, simulated environments. She joins fellow cohort members Evangeline Henderson, Luke Thomas, Anna Billany, Gaigai Xie, and Serena Marija.
Since graduating, Sharma has contributed to ambitious live and immersive projects, including Arc with Nike at The Treadmill Factory, and Baraka Obscura at the V&A, a projection-based installation exploring Arab cultural heritage. She also created real-time live visuals for two main stages at Boomtown 2026 and worked on the UK premiere of Chopin Residue at Cadogan Hall.
Her technical practice has been further developed through laser design workshops with Seb Lee-Delisle and Abby Shum. Sharma's innovative approach was shaped during her MA Animation Production course at AUB, where she developed projects such as Dashavatar: Reincarnation through Evolution and Reflections.
“"I’m incredibly grateful to be named one of BEYOND Studio’s six Emerging Innovators for 2026. BEYOND is one of the UK’s leading gatherings for thinkers, makers, researchers and investors working at the intersection of creativity and innovation. Being recognised as part of this year’s cohort, alongside such a brilliant group of peers, means so much!"
An online showcase of the 2026 Emerging Innovators' work will launch next month, preceding the annual BEYOND Conference in Salford this November.
