8/31/2012

The Power Of Art Cannot Be Ignored

By Crystal Salazar


The power of art has been enjoyed by people for centuries. Modern technology today is able to prove the extent to which art has power by measuring the pleasure it gives the viewer. Scientists know that when more blood flows to the pleasure area of the brain the viewer will feel happy. This happens when two people are in love but this also happens when the viewer enjoys a piece of artwork.

A special procedure called the MRI scan enables scientists to measure the amount of blood flowing to the pleasure area of the brain. Conversely when the viewer considered that art to be unattractive, the blood flow to this frontal area of the brain decreased significantly. It is clear that the amount of blood flowing to this area of the brain is controlled by the amount of pleasure or pain the viewer experiences from the painting.

The results show that when the painting is disturbing and the viewer is repulsed by it there will be less blood flowing to the pleasurable areas of the brain. One must keep in mind that the results are subjective so that what one viewer will like the next viewer may not care for at all. It is important to make sure that there are a significant number of people tested so that the data will provide valid conclusions.

It has been shown that the more art is incorporated into our daily lives the more people will enjoy their surroundings. Today we see more art hanging on the walls of hospitals, doctors' and dentists' offices as well as in schools and fast food restaurants. The exposure to art helps the viewer punctuate their day with visual treats that will help them enjoy their surroundings much more than if the walls were bare.

Framed pictures are one kind of art but there is also the world of sculpture, video and light art that are used to enhance larger, outdoor areas. Multi-dimensional art reaches a broader public and helps to reduce the level of anxiety we in our modern societies must endure. Art serves as a distraction and temporarily helps us to forget the worries that we carry with us everyday.

Art is also used in helping patients with mental disorders to express what is bothering them. Children for instance, who have been subjected to trauma find that art therapy allows them to express what they are unable to express in words. This is a valid therapy that has proven to be very effective in helping patients to resolve high anxiety issues by way of personal artistic expression.

Companies too have understood the importance of having an in-house art collection. Often a catalog is printed where the art and its creators are featured. This has proven to be an effective way to recognize and support local artists. Employees and visitors alike have an opportunity to appreciate and enjoy the art each time they enter the building. They are also able to participate in auctions or draws where the winner becomes the happy owner of a coveted piece of artwork.

The power of art goes beyond languages and cultures. One does not need to speak a foreign language in order to share and appreciate fine art. It is important that the art be made available so that the viewer be allowed the opportunity to experience the message that the artist wishes to share with the viewer.




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