This course will provide insight into the perceptual and mental processes used to create a visual aesthetic experience. The course begins with defining art appreciation. Next, the visual and perceptual processes involved in looking at art are covered. This is followed by a discussion of contemporary scientific research on the conscious and unconscious mental processes used during art appreciation. Neural responses to visual art will be delineated. Finally, personality variables and contextual factors that affect preference for certain types of art will be examined. The course ends with a discussion of AI and art appreciation in the future.
((John Mullennix - Online: Zoom - Monday))