Blue Monkey Network present

Getting into Flow during arts practice: neuroscience explains its positive effects

A talk by Gaynor Sádlo

In March, Blue Monkey Network are delighted to present a talk by Gaynor Sádlo.

This talk explores the neuroscience behind the experience of Flow, which is a positive mental state often reported by those engaged in arts practices. Deep concentration on an activity that demands maximum skill has the effect of helping us forget our ‘selves’ - and this makes us lose track of time. Skills thus have the power of altering our very states of consciousness. The discovery that our brain works in networks - and that each takes so much energy that some have to be switched off when others are active - has been crucial to increased understanding of the positive health effects of the arts. Reduced self awareness seems to give us a ‘break’ from thinking about our troubles, potentially reducing stress.

This talk reflects Gaynor’s research at the University of Brighton, where she held a professorship in Occupational Science, focusing on the neuroscience and therapeutic effects of ‘flow.’ Gaynor is also a ceramicist and a member of Eastbourne Studio Pottery and Blue Monkey Network.

This talk is free for Blue Monkey Network members and £5 to non members. All welcome, tickets available on the door.

Supported by Towner Eastbourne, who host most of the events, Blue Monkey Network runs regular monthly events aimed at promoting the exchange of ideas, information, and knowledge between artists, curators, and arts organisations