Unit 3 Overview: Neuroaesthetics Approaches to the Visual Arts—Creation

Abstract

AbstractThe unit overview is focused on the creation of art and aesthetic objects. Given the fact that the line between art and non-art has become thinner and thinner during the last decades, we pursue the creation of a varied number of visual media, ranging from classical portraits to selfie and selfie-editing behaviours. Also, we bring into view authorship issues, arising both from classical art philosophy and contemporary situations, such as AI-generated art. The function and meaning of portraits across the ages is a key part of the discussion in this chapter, treating art as utilitarian and aesthetic at the same time. Moreover, the reasons for creating art lay at the center of trying to analyze art creation from a neurological perspective. Defining the artist/creator and establishing his or her position as aesthetic expert becomes crucial in this respect. We present the current limitations in the field of neuroaesthetics regarding art and portrait creation and we try to re-contextualize research from the perception field of neuroaesthetics and apply it to the art-production field.