"The Influence of Art Expertise and Training on Emotion and Preference Ratings for Representational and Abstract Artworks" by Jorien van Paasschen, Francesca Bacci, David P. Melcher

Summary

This research article explores how art expertise and training influence emotional and preference ratings for both representational and abstract artworks. The study involved art experts and novices, with a subgroup of novices receiving brief art historical training, rating artworks in both laboratory and museum settings. Key findings indicate that while art experts rate artworks higher in terms of beauty and personal preference, basic emotional responses (valence and arousal) remain consistent across all observer groups, suggesting a universal element to immediate emotional reactions to art. Interestingly, artworks viewed digitally in the lab were often preferred over those seen in the museum, and prior exposure to artworks generally led to higher ratings of beauty and liking.