Neuroscience and the Arts Today

The featured artists and performers have built on recent neuroscientific knowledge, incorporating social, cognitive, or affective discoveries in their art. Some work collaboratively with neuroscientists while others work alone. All are engaged in communicating their insights about the body and mind to the general public, and many are educators. Today, knowledge gained in cognitive neuroscience by those working in the visual arts, performing arts, literature, and music has amplified productive approaches to creativity, emotion, and even the healing process. The reverse is also true: neuroscience sees art as an increasingly valuable resource, and its practitioners are finding ways to apply this knowledge. Novel therapies are in the process of developing by using knowledge of brain function and basic physiology to improve well-being, and artist/-performers as well as scientists have undertaken a role in this process.