The Art Aficionado's Guide to Dinner Party Domination

Art has a remarkable ability to stir emotions and spark imagination.  Yet, have you ever considered why people can have such diverse interpretations of the same piece of artwork? It's a fascinating phenomenon rooted in our unique psychological backgrounds and experiences. 

We all carry distinct psychological baggage, shaped by our upbringing, cultural influences, personal beliefs, and past experiences.  These elements intertwine to create a tapestry of thoughts and emotions, influencing our instantaneous and often unconscious reactions; 'Wow, that's mind-blowing!' or 'A child could have painted that!' 

Our brains have a knack for rapidly forming judgments such as 'that's cool or 'that sucks', with little thought or contemplation.  It's a fascinating interplay between our personal histories and the way our minds process information.  But are we missing out?

Well, yes, we are!  The proverb, 'Remember to stop and smell the roses' encourages us to take a beat, ponder, think a little, and be in the moment.  So, how can we be less judgy and more open?

1. Cultivate a Sense of Curiosity: Question your initial reactions, because who knows, that painting you dismissed as 'a bunch of random scribbles' might just hold the key to a creative revelation.  Or, it may just be a bunch of scribbles.  Life is full of surprises, and being open to different perspectives can help us navigate this crazy world we live in.
   
   
2. Engage in Conversation: A quiet chat or lively debate can be enlightening, especially over a glass of wine.  We can learn from each other if we are open to ideas and still on the first bottle 😉.  Sharing and discussing our interpretations with our art mates can offer new insights and challenge preconceived notions. Each person brings their own unique perspective, and by embracing these diverse viewpoints, we expand our understanding and appreciation of art.
   
   
3. Step out of your Comfort Zone: We tend to stick with what we like and what's familiar - it's like a cosy blanket.  This is a great idea when you don't want to grow anymore 🤔.  But, if you do, trying on something new can spark a cacophony of thoughts and feelings.  You may feel excited or enraged by what you see and feel.  And that's ok.  With time, you may find your mind changing, beliefs evolving, and a newfound appreciation for something once dismissed.  

By embracing or even contemplating, the wacky, the weird, and the wonderful, we become more interesting human beings and gain lots more dinner invitations.  

image: The Problem We All Live With (1964), Norman Rockwell

A Bit of Dinner Chat 

Norman Rockwell was primarily known as an illustrator, famous for his cover illustrations for The Saturday Evening Post. However, he had a deep interest in social and political issues, and he used his artistic talent to address these topics in his work.

Norman Rockwell's painting 'The Problem We All Live With' is a powerful and iconic artwork from 1964. It portrays Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old African American girl, as she courageously walks to a newly desegregated school in New Orleans during the Civil Rights Movement.

Rockwell's intention was to shed light on the racial tensions and challenges of the time, emphasizing the need for racial integration and provoking dialogue about the discrimination faced by African Americans.

The painting captures the injustice and hostility encountered by Bridges and other African American students integrating into all-white schools. Rockwell's choice to depict Bridges alone, at her eye level, invites empathy and personal connection.

The tomato splattered on the wall symbolizes racial hatred and opposition to desegregation. Through this artwork, Rockwell aimed to challenge prevailing racial prejudices, advocate for equality and unity, and bring attention to the urgent need for racial justice and social change.

A Bit of Neuro

So how can knowing the story behind the painting and the artist's intention change our perception and beliefs within the blink of an eye?  And how can this process be applied to other aspects of our lives?

When we gain new knowledge or encounter different perspectives, our brains light up with excitement. Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to rewire and adapt, kicks into high gear. 

Research has shown that exposure to diverse ideas and experiences can reshape our neural networks, enhancing cognitive flexibility and creativity. It expands our mental horizons and helps us to break free from old patterns of thinking.  

Dopamine, often referred to as the 'reward molecule,' is released when we encounter something novel or stimulating. It fuels our curiosity and motivation, keeping us engaged and eager to explore further.

Serotonin, the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter, is also involved in this process. It promotes a positive mood and enhances our receptiveness to new information, priming our brains for growth and transformation.

This rewiring process not only enhances cognitive flexibility and creativity but also helps us break free from old patterns of thinking. It leads to profound shifts in how we perceive the world, opening our minds to new possibilities and innovative ideas.

So, when we engage with art, delve into history, explore different cultures, or simply embrace lifelong learning, we're not just expanding our knowledge, but also triggering a neurochemical cascade that fuels our brain's adaptability and growth.

If you enjoyed this post and are an exciting dinner guest, please share the love.  And share any stories in the comments, I'd love to hear them.

Have a cosy lively weekend!