Exploring Neuroaesthetics: Bridging Neuroscience and Architecture

The presentation 'ANFA Magsamen Sep16' delves into the burgeoning field of neuroaesthetics, highlighting its potential to transform our understanding of sensory perception and cognitive processes within the built environment. The talk, led by Susan Magsamen from the Johns Hopkins Brain Science Institute, outlines the institute's goals and the genesis of the neuroaesthetics initiative. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together artists, researchers, and architects to explore how aesthetic experiences are processed by the brain. The establishment of the Arts and Mind Lab and its mission to use emerging technologies like virtual reality to simulate environments underscores the forward-thinking vision of this initiative. The presentation concludes with a focus on future goals, community engagement, and the practical applications of neuroaesthetics research in enhancing user experience and well-being.

Introduction to the Panel and Speakers

0:00 - 1:08

The presentation begins with an introduction to the final panel at the conference, focusing on a new initiative at the Brain Science Institute at Johns Hopkins University. The speaker, Julio Bermudez, outlines the session's structure, which includes presentations from four speakers, followed by a Q&A session. This segment sets the stage for a discussion on neuroaesthetics, highlighting its relevance as a bridge to future collaborations. The introduction effectively primes the audience for a deep dive into the intersection of neuroscience and architecture, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue.

Overview of the Brain Science Institute's Goals

1:08 - 4:19

Susan Magsamen, representing the Johns Hopkins Brain Science Institute, outlines the institute's foundational goals. Established in 2006, the institute focuses on funding basic science through interdisciplinary approaches, creating technology cores for research, and developing a neuro-translational program to bridge research and practice. This segment highlights the institute's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration across disciplines, setting the groundwork for its neuroaesthetics initiative. The emphasis on interdisciplinary working groups and technology cores illustrates a robust framework for advancing brain science research.

The Genesis of the Neuroaesthetics Initiative

4:19 - 6:14

The speaker delves into the origins of the neuroaesthetics initiative, tracing its roots to a 2010 event that brought together artists and researchers to explore sensory systems. This initiative aims to integrate rigorous scientific inquiry with artistic practice, focusing on sensory learning and its implications. The collaboration with artists, dancers, and architects underscores the initiative's interdisciplinary nature. A compelling example is the work with Lonnie Sue Johnson, an artist who lost her ability to draw due to hippocampal damage, illustrating the profound impact of neuroscience on understanding and rehabilitating artistic abilities.

Establishing the Neuroaesthetics Program

6:14 - 9:02

In 2015, the neuroaesthetics program was officially launched, supported by an executive advisory board comprising experts from diverse fields. The program aims to create a 'container' for collaborative work between researchers and artists, drawing inspiration from global programs. The establishment of a stakeholder database with 7,000 individuals interested in the intersection of arts and neuroscience highlights the program's expansive reach. This segment is particularly engaging due to its focus on building a community and fostering partnerships, which are crucial for advancing the field of neuroaesthetics.

Mission and Vision of the Arts and Mind Lab

9:02 - 12:27

The Arts and Mind Lab, launched as part of the neuroaesthetics initiative, aims to explore how the brain processes aesthetic experiences. The lab's mission is to build the field of neuroaesthetics through interdisciplinary collaboration, focusing on research, convening, and sharing. The lab's innovative approach includes using emerging technologies like virtual reality to simulate environments and gather data. This segment is notable for its forward-thinking vision, emphasizing the potential of neuroaesthetics to enhance human experiences and solve complex problems through a deeper understanding of aesthetic interactions.

Future Goals and Community Engagement

12:27 - 15:03

The presentation concludes with a discussion of the lab's future goals, including recruiting a scientific director, implementing a research agenda, and launching educational programs. The emphasis on community building and interdisciplinary partnerships is central to the lab's strategy. The launch of a website to foster community engagement and share perspectives is a key step in expanding the field's reach. This segment is compelling due to its focus on the practical application of neuroaesthetics research, highlighting the potential for art and neuroscience to collaboratively address significant societal challenges.