The vestibular system and artistic painting: A theoretical framework for the study of multi-modal interactions in aesthetic experience of painting and painting viewing

Abstract

Neuroaesthetics is an emerging neuroscientific field aimed at explaining the cognitive processes and the neurobiological correlates actually involved in both artistic practices and aesthetic experiences. Indeed the essential role of vision has already been extensively studied, but recent data suggest that aesthetic interactions may rely upon a broader multi-sensory integration including auditory or somatic inputs. In such a context, the implication of the vestibular system, which is activated for both the control of head/body movements and the sense of balance, may be considered as a crucial issue. Taking artistic painting as an example, the main purpose of this paper is to propose a schematic comprehensive theoretical framework that might be useful to pave the way for future research in this multi-sensory, multimodal and innovative neuroaesthetic field.