Description

New York Times Bestseller

Your Brain on Art takes readers on a groundbreaking journey into the science of neuroaesthetics, revealing how engaging with the arts can reshape our brains and bodies. Authors Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross present compelling evidence that participating in creative activities—whether painting, dancing, writing, or even experiencing architecture—has profound benefits for our health, well-being, and communities.

Far from being a mere luxury or source of entertainment, the arts offer practical and accessible solutions to enhance our lives. Research presented in the book highlights how just forty-five minutes of artistic engagement can lower cortisol levels, reducing stress regardless of skill level, and how experiencing art just once a month may even extend lifespan by a decade. The authors explore how playing music sharpens cognitive abilities, how tuning fork vibrations help counteract stress, and how virtual reality is being used as a therapeutic tool. They also examine the impact of interactive exhibits that fully immerse the senses, strengthening memory and deepening our connection to art. Medical professionals are even prescribing museum visits as a way to combat loneliness, dementia, and other health challenges.

Your Brain on Art introduces a transformative perspective on how the arts can revolutionize healthcare, foster stronger communities, and contribute to healing the planet. Featuring insights from leading artists and experts—including David Byrne, Renée Fleming, and evolutionary biologist E. O. Wilson—the book serves as an essential guide to the emerging field of neuroaesthetics. Combining cutting-edge research, expert analysis, and real-life stories, Magsamen and Ross provide a compelling case for the power of artistic expression to enrich and extend our lives.