In this podcast episode, we dive into the question of whether artistic pursuits can really be used as a viable means of psychotherapy. This discussion examines how all these different artistic pursuits such as, painting, music, and dance can provide actual emotional stability and self awareness. Utilizing Beardsley philosophical concepts and real scientific studies, our episode showcases the real reasons behind the strength that artistic expression holds. Our audiences can anticipate a meaningful conversation regarding the nature artistic expression has on our mental and physical conditions.
In this episode of our podcast we explored who is Monroe Beardsley, emotional healing, Scientific and philosophical critiques, and modern day applications. Some sub topics we talked about are; How do music, poetry, painting or drama affect our brains, and how art can be used in therapy...etc. To hear the rest join us and watch our episode 3 detailing all of our research.
In the podcast, we discussed the historical background and artistic significance of The Raft of the Medusa, focusing on how the painting depicts human suffering, survival, and political failure. We explored how Géricault uses composition and emotion to convey both tragedy and hope, and why the work was controversial at the time. The conversation connected the artwork to broader themes of power, responsibility, and the human condition.
In this episode, we delve into Francisco Goya’s haunting painting Saturn Devouring His Son and the unsettling power it still holds today. Our discussion examines how myth, psychology, and political turmoil intersect in Goya’s work, revealing why this image continues to provoke such intense reactions. We explore the deeper questions the painting raises about fear, authority, and the darker side of human nature—without giving away every interpretation we uncover. Join us as we unpack the layers of symbolism behind this iconic piece and consider what it means for modern viewers. This conversation invites listeners to rethink a famous artwork they may know, but have never truly confronted.
Opening theme: Miniature Overture
In this episode, our group discusses the Pablo Picasso painting Les Demoiselles d’Avignon; what was so special
about it, why it shocked viewers, and how it ultimately transformed 20th-century art. We break down the painting’s bold use of fractured forms, its controversial depiction of the human body, and the way Picasso pulled from African and Iberian influences to completely rewrite the rules of representation. We also look at the intense reactions it sparked when it was first shown, why even Picasso’s fellow artists were unsettled by it, and how the work paved the way for Cubism and modern abstraction. By the end, we reflect on why this painting still matters today and what it reveals about the evolution of artistic expression.
The discussion surrounding the French pittoresque and the Italian pittoresco reveals the extent to which each culture influenced the perception of “the picturesque” in art and aesthetics. In its basic form, pittoresco in Italian indicated “worthy of being painted.” That is to say; it highlighted the natural visual interest, the vivid detail, and the scenes which were of direct appeal to the artist’s eye. On the other hand, the French version, pittoresque, advanced the term into a more theoretical category which was linked not only to taste but also to composition and the principles of aesthetic judgment. Hence, the French version was more philosophical and systematically whereas the Italian term was still connected to the practice of art and observation. This, in turn, led to a historical debate whether the picturesque was to be seen as a property of the real landscapes (Italian) or as a frame for evaluating beauty (French).
In this episode of the Exploring Art Podcast, our group discusses who Nathaniel Willis was, some of his history, and what might have inspired him. We identify some of Lake George’s natural features. Using Nathaniel Willis’ description and images of the lake, we broke down what beauty really is and what makes something “beautiful”.
In this episode, Haley is joined by Adam Sandler and Giulia as they discuss the proper usage of art. The group talks about Art therapy with specific examples. They use this to talk about a girl named Gladys’ mental situation and what she can do. Join us as we learn a lot of cool facts about art and dive into the mentality of people struggling and how art can help them.
In this episode, we dive deep into the debate behind the meaning of picturesque and uncover the question of where beauty truly lies. Our group explores the writings of N. P. Willis, Lake George, and 18th–19th century landscape works as we debate whether natural beauty is inherent in the land or constructed by the viewer’s imagination. Join us to listen to historical explanations, reviews of artwork, and nuanced debate.
In this episode, we explore whether art can truly support emotional healing for students facing burnout. Using Gladys’s story as our starting point, we examine aesthetic experience through Monroe Beardsley’s theory and consider how beauty and creativity influence the brain. We discuss scientific evidence on music, dance, and visual art as tools for stress reduction and emotional restoration. While art isn’t a replacement for clinical treatment, we highlight how it can offer meaningful support during times of disconnection. Join us as we break down the relationship between art, psychology, and healing
In this episode, our group explores how artwork can show moments of history not only beautiful stories, but also tragedies. Throughout our podcast we dive deep into the history of the artwork “The Raft of Medusa.” We discuss the events behind the artwork, the history, art style, philosophy, and the artist’s life to ultimately come to a conclusion. Can a painting representing so much tragedy be beautiful or does it empathize terror? Does the artwork show artist Gericault’s sickening thoughts or his beautiful techniques?
Our discussion dives into why Marat’s assassination became more than a political event — it became a visual myth. We examine how Jacques-Louis David used light, composition, and symbolism to turn a moment of brutality into a scene of almost spiritual calm. Jeanette and Javier unpack the motivations of both Marat and Corday, along with the ethical challenges of beautifying violence. This episode asks whether art can change how we judge historical figures, and what is gained or lost when truth is softened. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how art and politics shape each other.
In this episode we take a clear look at what makes a symbol work in different environments and why versatility is essential in branding today. We break down how a strong symbol keeps its identity across everything from a website header to product packaging to a social media profile. The discussion focuses on practical design choices such as clarity, scale, color use, and typography, and how these decisions help a symbol stay recognizable no matter where it appears. This episode is a simple and direct guide for anyone who wants to understand how effective visual identity is built and why adaptability matters in a world where brands exist in so many different spaces.
In this episode, our group explores what we believe is considered beautiful or ugly in art. Through paintings like Starry Night, and primarily Les Demoiselles d’Avignon we discuss whether or not we view them as “beautiful” or “ugly” as some may have. By digging deeper into the meaning of Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, we give our own thought of this painting’s own beauty. Maybe even forming your own meaning of what this painting is to you as you listen along.
Okay hang on Beauty in art can have many different meanings. While we do typically associate beauty in art with certain subjects or landscapes, beauty in art is more than just how aesthetically pleasing something is to look at. While beauty in art can comfort us, I think it is perfectly okay for it to disturb us. It makes us dive deeper into the meaning of art. Horror can also definitely be aesthetically moving. When artists play on a sense of fear or tension, it evokes strong emotions within the viewers that creates a balance between leaving them both deep in thought and on-edge.
How can taking a bath end up in a murder and can this be considered beautiful? Jean-Paul Marat can answer the first question and Jaques-Louis David can answer the second one. Today our group will be observing The Death of Marat painting and discussing the hidden messages in it. Towards the end we also discuss and share our own opinions about the case study. Join us for this discussion and learn more how not to end up being killed while taking a bath.
In this episode, we dive into Peter Ustinov’s bold decision to film Billy Budd in black and white, even as color movies were becoming the norm. Through a mix of research and discussion, we explore why audiences often see black-and-white imagery as more “real,” and what that reveals about perception and cultural habits. We also examine the debate sparked by film critic Ivor Montagu, who challenged Ustinov’s idea of realism and the illusions created by cinema. Our conversation explores the connection between film style, psychology, and storytelling to reveal why sometimes the least literal images can feel the most truthful. Join us as we explore how art influences the way we perceive reality itself.
In this episode, we explored the murder of Jean-Paul Marat, and unraveled the painting made by Jacques-Louis David, who detailed the scene in an aesthetically dramatic light. Our group discussed the origin behind the painting, the scheming behind the murder and the aftermath of it. We hope you enjoy listening to our discussion, just as much as we enjoyed unraveling it.
In this episode, three students take a close look at The Studio in Avignon, checking out what it felt like when Picasso worked there back in 1907. Instead of just listing facts, they dig into how the messy attic, jammed with drawings and carvings inspired by African art, fueled the raw vibe of Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. While one focuses on why it shocked people and the fear, another ties it to influence and exploitation, whereas the third links it to the depiction of the women. Because each sees things differently, their chat blends old records, outside influences, and gut reactions to show how the artwork shook up its time. Since the space was so packed with ideas and objects, it ended up sparking a total shift in how artists approached work during the 1900s.
In today’s podcast, we travel back in time to explore the concept of the picturesque and how its meaning has evolved across generations. We look at how different viewers- artists, writers, and tourists have perceived certain landscapes and artworks as “picture-worthy.” Lake George serves as our central case study, a place celebrated for its natural beauty but interpreted differently depending on who viewed it and how they framed the scene. By examining these shifting perspectives, we uncover why the picturesque is not just about what we see in nature, but also how we imagine and interpret it.