Art and Neuroscience

Drug use affects chemical balances in the brain causing euphoria, extra-sensory sensations, and even hallucinations. Most drugs have a beneficial effect, causing many to be used by modern medical practices. No drug is without side effects however. The use of several drugs, especially when not prescribed, can have long lasting effects on the brain.

Figure 1: Diagram of neurotransmitters

Drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines activate the brain’s pleasure circuit. Cocaine affects chemicals as they are being transmitted, while methamphetamines causes an increase in the dispersal of neurotransmitters (drugabuse.gov). Affecting this chemical communication leads to the euphoric feelings of the drug and are the main proponent for developing addictive tendencies.

 As mentioned in the lecture, artists have often utilized drugs in order to gather inspiration from their unconscious mind. Perhaps inspired by Leary’s experiments with LSD, one artist took it upon himself to portray the effects 52 different drugs had on his self perception. The following figures display a sample of the resulting self portraits.

Figure 2: Self portrait of an artist under the influence of Ambien

Figure 3: Self portrait of an artist under the influence of crystal meth

The effect of different drugs on one’s psyche is expressed through the portraits. The portrait induced by meth shows the chaotic and blurry nature of the trip. On the other hand, the portrait induced by Ambien, a depressant, allows for more detail to be put into the drawing. Drugs’ ability to change our perception of ourselves is very dangerous in nature. One must keep in mind if the drug is pulling you closer to or farther away from reality (George, F.).

Works Cited

"Ambien." Drugs.com. Web. 16 May 2015. [http://www.drugs.com/cons/ambien.html]

"Artist Creates Self-Portraits On Different Drugs, And The Results Are Insane." Elite Daily. Ed. Robert Anthony. Web. 16 May 2015.

"Effects of Drugs on the Brain." Drugabuse.gov. 7 May 2015. Web. 16 May 2015.

George, F. "Mind-Altering Drug and Self-Perception." Orthodoxy and Recovery. Blogger, 14 Mar. 2012. Web. 16 May 2015.

Gillespie, Nick. "Psychedelic, Man." The Washington Post 15 June 2006, Books sec. Web. 16 May 2015.