The Effects of Fluctuations in Dopamine Levels on Creative Thinking and Expression in Visual Art

This research qualitatively analyzes the effects of abnormalities in dopaminergic functioning on visual art through the evaluation of Parkinson’s Disease, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In addition, the research discusses the examples of famous visual artists who have suffered from these disorders and draws potential connections between changes in art style and productivity, and changes in dopamine. Dopamine can impact creative thinking and expression in visual art through its influence on factors such as perception, imagery, divergent thinking, novelty-seeking, and reward-seeking behaviors. Overall trends show that mental states that induce an increase in dopaminergic activity can serve as a conducive condition for improved artistic output, through an increase in novelty seeking, energy, divergent thinking, and unique demonstrations of elements and principles of art.