Neuroscience + Art

 Neuroscience + Art


When the fields of neuroscience and art are bridged, they are able to create experiences that could never otherwise be created by either field on its own. Although neuroscientists have explored the consciousnesses and biological makeup of the other sentient beings that accompany us on this Earth, the information gathered has largely been confined within academic articles and research papers. 

While artists have captured the essence of other sentient beings within paintings and sculptures, the art typically positions the beholder as an observant. 

Neither field has truly or effectively approached the philosophical dilemma regarding humans’ ability to embody the experiences of other sentient beings. This experience is critical because it not only gives us a better understanding of the creatures that we share our planet with, but also helps us build a genuine empathy for their well-being. When these two disciplines were united through the Octopus Brainstorming performative installation, humans were finally given the opportunity to experience existence through a new perspective. 


The combination of the neuroscientific emphasis on the synchronicity between participants’ brainwave frequencies and the artistic emphasis on the LED visual element achieved an extraordinary experience. It was ultimately extremely effective in communicating a strong message about the collective dimension of consciousness and the dissonance between our concept of individuality against the ecosystems binding us to other sentient beings.



Works Cited


Albu, Cristina. “Cristina Albu.” CMA Journal - Simon Fraser University, CMA Journal, Aug. 

2021, https://www.sfu.ca/cmajournal/issues/issue-ten--enchantment--disenchantment

--reenchantment/cristina-albu.html?fbclid=IwAR1twyrqbeKqNrJSUXSihLVGvX_D9ARndxDv3USnw2pTENE_iXHJtIo8v54. 

Bateson, Gregory. Mind and Nature: A Necessary Unity. United Kingdom, Bantam Books, 1988.

Thieleking, Ronja et al. “art.pics Database: An Open Access Database for Art Stimuli for 

Experimental Research.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 11 576580. 16 Dec. 2020, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2020.576580

van Leeuwen, Janneke E P et al. “More Than Meets the Eye: Art Engages the Social Brain.” 

Frontiers in neuroscience vol. 16 738865. 25 Feb. 2022, doi:10.3389/fnins.2022.738865

Varela, Francisco J., et al. The Embodied Mind: Cognitive Science and Human Experience. 

United States, MIT Press, 1992.


Images

Cole, Margherita. “Lifelike Paintings Celebrate the Spectacular Beauty of Big Cats.” My Modern 

Met, My Modern Met, 18 Nov. 2021, https://mymodernmet.com/julie-rhodes-animal-paintings/. 

Mills, Kelly-Ann. “Lab Monkeys Have Holes Drilled into Their Skulls in Cruel Brain 

Experiments.” Mirror, Mirror, 22 Sept. 2020, https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/lab-monkeys-holes-drilled-skulls-22721765. 

Vernali, Cameron. “Design Media Arts Professor Creates Neuroscience-Based Installation.” 

Daily Bruin, 9 Jan. 2018, https://dailybruin.com/2018/01/09/design-media-arts-professor-creates-neuroscience-based-installation.


Comments

  1. JustineMay 15, 2022 at 11:31 PM

    Hi Danielle,
    Great blog! I really liked the way you described how neuroscience and art are connected and bridged together by science and artists. Furthermore, your insight regarding the Octopus Brainstorming installing was very interesting to read. I find it very interesting that you mentioned this and discussed the collective dimension of consciousness as I was previously confused by this notion. Your blog gave me more clarity on the topic and I am glad to have read it.

    ReplyDelete

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