Wonder how the brain creates, or responds to, art? Wonder why and how humans come to perceive beauty?
Some scientists are joining with artists, musicians, educators and historians to explore the topic during a series of lectures on sensory science and the arts Oct. 20 and 21.
The series was developed by the Johns Hopkins Brain Science Institute along with the Walters Art Museum, and it will be moderated by National Public Radio arts and science correspondent Jon Hamilton.
"The artifacts of early man suggest that our ancestors were moved by images, forms, sounds and movements, and in a world of subsistence, put effort and resources into their art," says Dr. John "Jack" Griffin, director of the Brain Science Institute, in a statement. "For centuries, philosophers have speculated on the links between perception, beauty, creativity and pleasure, and in recent years, scientists have learned a great deal about sensory systems."
He said the relevance in life is the ability, for example, to design classrooms that enhance learning or hospitals that facilitate greater healing.
The cost is $100 for the public, and free for students. For a complete list of lectures and information on registering, go to the Brain Science Institute website.