Viewing original works of art in a gallery can relieve stress, reduce the risk of heart disease and boost the immune system, according to the first study of its kind. Researchers measured the physiological responses of participants while viewing masterpieces by artists including Manet, Van Gogh and Gauguin.
The study, led by King's College London, involved 50 people aged 18 to 40. Half viewed original artwork at the Courtauld Gallery in London, while the other half looked at copies in a non-gallery environment. Sensors measured heart rates and skin temperature, with saliva samples taken before and after.
Results showed that levels of the stress hormone cortisol fell by an average of 22% among those viewing original art, compared with just 8% for reproductions. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-alpha) dropped by 30% and 28% respectively in the gallery group, with no changes in the other group.
Dr Tony Woods of King's College London said: “The research clearly shows the stress-reducing properties of viewing original art and its ability to simultaneously excite, engage and arouse us.” He added that the findings suggest cultural experiences may play a role in protecting both mind and body.
The study also found that art engages the immune, nervous and endocrine systems simultaneously. Researchers detected signs of excitement among gallery viewers, including a dip in skin temperature and higher heart rates. Jenny Waldman, director of the Art Fund, which co-funded the study, said: “This study proves for the first time what we've long felt – that art really is good for you.”
