Neuroplasticity is the key to understanding the relationship between art therapy and neuroscience. Images viewed in the mind’s eye have seemingly fantastic effects on the brain: neurotransmitters and hormones are produced, genes are switched on and off, the brain’s anatomy is altered. Using art materials, the art-making process, and visual expression to sustain focus on chosen images can have a lasting positive effect on the brain, altering its structure and its function. Consequently, the far-reaching benefits of improved mental functioning, strengthened social interactions, and physical healing can also be achieved.
For more in-depth information
on the revolutionary discoveries taking place in the world of brain science,
investigate these resources:
Articles
- Understanding the Relationship Between Neuroscience and Art
- An Annotated Bibliography of Contemporary Brain Research
Viewing these documents on-line with your browser requires Adobe Reader 6.0.1 or greater,
you can download from Adobe here, or
you can save the document to your computer and open it locally (right click the file and choose "Save As")
Web resources