Sometimes we think that in order for our brain to benefit from the arts we must be actually creating art. However, just viewing art has a benefit of its own.
In an article from Medium, A Visit to the Art Museum Makes You Healthier, and We Can Prove It! , “Even a short visit to a museum to spend time in the galleries looking at works of art and letting your mind engage with the artists’ ideas and stories or the colors and textures in the artworks can have a healing effect on your brain.”
We are fortunate to have the Kimbell Art Museum in our own backyard in Fort Worth. I’ve visited several times over the years and have enjoyed each visit. I’ve viewed Egyptian art, Renoir, and Monet to name a few.
A print of the Two Sisters by Renoir hung in my home as a child. When I was fortunate enough to view it in person at the Kimbell, I was overwhelmed by its beauty. The colors were so vibrant they almost took my breath away.
Sometimes you can find art displayed in the most unexpected places. When I lived in Frisco they displayed art inside city hall. Chuck used to participate in an On My Own art competition at his work. They displayed the art at North Park Mall.
We used to love visiting the Cottonwood Art Festival in Richardson every spring. My daughter started collecting pieces from one particular artist each year we visited.
One cognitive benefit to viewing art, includes analysis. This requires you to, “interpret complex visuals, challenge your perceptions, and construct meaning,” which improve critical thinking and problem-solving.
Interestingly, looking at colorful art pieces can boost our well-being. I can certainly attest to that with my reaction to Renoir’s vibrant colors.
According to Dr. Shivani Khetan, a certified expressive arts therapist, “Colorful artwork can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, leading to feelings of happiness and well-being.”
Believe it or not, viewing art online provides the same benefit as viewing it in a gallery. In fact, you can take virtual tours of famous art museums from around the world.
Just setting aside a few moments to viewing art can reduce stress and calm anxiety.
Khetan teaches, “Engaging with art should be part of a balanced approach to well-being that includes other aspects like physical health, social connections, and emotional well-being.”
Where have you observed art?
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