Ep.24. Can Art Cause Physical Discomfort?

"Uncomfortable images in art and nature" by Dominic Fernandez and Arnold J Wilkins (2008) This scientific paper investigates the link between the Fourier amplitude spectrum of an image and the discomfort it causes in viewers. The authors hypothesise that uncomfortable images have a disproportionately higher amplitude at spatial frequencies close to 3 cycles per degree, a range known to induce seizures in individuals with photosensitive epilepsy. Six studies are conducted, comparing the discomfort ratings of various images – including contemporary art, filtered noise, and natural scenes – with their respective Fourier spectra. Across these studies, a strong correlation is observed between discomfort and energy at the specified spatial frequency range. This research proposes that understanding the Fourier spectrum can help predict and avoid negative reactions to images in contexts such as public art and hospitals.

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