Neuroscience and Art: A Collection of Essays

This unique book would be the first of its kind published from an Asian country while only a very few titles are available in the western world. Art is an expression of human creativity that is not observed in any other living creature. The artist expresses his/her experience, idea, thought, and/ or opinion on a subject crossing his/her mind or visually or auditorily perceived. Through art, it is possible not only to record or describe objects, events, and moments, but also to express feelings, opinions, and attitudes. Modern neuroscience has the privilege to investigate the processes of artistic performance in a healthy brain by means of advanced neuroimaging techniques. The first five essays in this book describe in detail but in simple language the science behind creativity, the scientific basis of the techniques which the artists employ to enhance the aesthetic values of their art works without having any knowledge about the structure or functions of the brain, and lastly the possible neural pathways involved in both creation and appreciation of visual art works. An artist is essentially a neurologist or better a neuroscientist. The rest of the essays principally discuss the changes in art forms and creativity which happen when talented artists develop some form of neurological diseases including strokes, dementias, and Parkinsonism. The book also contains discussions on portrayal of some neurological diseases in art-related media like literature and films

First of Its Kind: This book is a pioneering work from an Asian country, filling a gap in the global literature on the intersection of art and neuroscience, with very few similar titles available in the Western world.

Exploration of Human Creativity: The book delves into the nature of art as a unique expression of human creativity, showcasing how artists convey their thoughts, ideas, and emotions through visual or auditory means.

Scientific Insight into Art: The initial essays provide a clear and accessible explanation of the science behind creativity, including the neurological processes that support artistic expression and appreciation.

Neuroscience of Artistic Techniques: The book explores the scientific principles behind the techniques artists use to enhance the aesthetic value of their work, even without understanding the underlying neural structures involved.

Neural Pathways in Art: It also highlights the neural pathways engaged during the creation and appreciation of visual art, suggesting that artists might be intuitively functioning like neuroscientists in their work.

Impact of Neurological Diseases on Art: Several chapters explore how neurological diseases, such as strokes, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, impact the art forms and creativity of talented artists, offering a deep dive into how the brain’s health influences creative expression.

Art's Representation of Neurological Diseases: The book discusses how neurological diseases have been portrayed in literature, films, and other art-related media, bridging the gap between neuroscience and cultural expressions.