By
Natasha Rutledge

Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsaman and Ivy Ross — Book Review

I believe that as designers it’s important to constantly be working on expanding the way we think and our perception of the world. Part of how I practice this habit is by reading. Reading opens your mind to perspectives, cultures and ideas that you may not have had any insight on before. As a designer you can then use this knowledge to relate to different audiences and provide solutions that make a positive impact on the world.

I recently read the book,Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsaman and Ivy Ross. Magsaman and Ross explore the connection between what is beautiful and the human psyche. They expertly walk you through the parts of the brain and how they are impacted by all the different forms of artistic expression while also sharing distinct case studies and scientific discoveries.

I’ve never considered myself to be a scientific person, and while at times this book was heavy on the jargon—I was blown away by the information in this book. Every new discovery I wanted to immediately share with everyone I talked to.

Even if you don’t happen to be a designer, I would still recommend picking up this book. Magsaman and Ross offer helpful tips on how anyone at any age can utilize the combination of art and science to better both their physical and mental health.

8 things I learned while reading this book:

  1. The human nose is better than a dogs.
  2. Depression is a leading cause of disability.
  3. Dance helps to teach us how to read body language and to communicated better.
  4. In the United States, 20 – 40% of deaths from leading health issues are preventable.
  5. By fostering self-learning (in play and in art) you are helping to set up a child for the reality they will live but we cannot yet imagine.
  6. Curiosity leads to higher levels of positive emotions.
  7. The primary center for taste contributes to our emotional experience (good food matters!)
  8. Museums are transforming from a place of artifacts to a place of healing.

As we continue to learn more about how our brains work, we as designers and as individuals can help to make positive impacts to ensure everyone is living a better quality of life.

Art and design offer a renaissance attitude that combines technology, science, human need and beauty to produce something the world didn’t know was missing.”

P.Antonelli