Nonlinear Dynamics, Psychology, and Life Sciences, Vol. 11, Iss. 1, Jan, 2007, pp. 149-165 @2007 Society for Chaos Theory in Psychology & Life Sciences Process and Meaning: Nonlinear Dynamics and Psychology in Visual Art Abstract: Creating and viewing visual art are both nonlinear experiences. Creating a work
of art is an irreversible process involving increasing levels of complexity and unpredictable
events. Viewing art is also creative with collective responses forming autopoietic
structures that shape cultural history. Artists work largely from the chaos of the
unconscious and visual art contains elements of chaos. Works of art by the author are
discussed in reference to nonlinear dynamics. Travelogues demonstrates continued
emerging interpretations and a deterministic chaos. Advice to the Imperfect signifies
the resolution of paradox in the nonlinear tension of opposites. Quanah shows the
nonlinear tension of opposites as an ongoing personal evolution. The Mother of All Things
depicts seemingly separate phenomena arising from undifferentiated chaos. Memories
refers to emotional fixations as limit cycles. Compassionate Heart, Wind on the Lake,
and Le Mal du Pays are a series of works in fractal format focusing on the archetype
of the mother and child. Sameness, Depth of Mystery addresses the illusion of hierarchy
and the dynamics of symbols. In Chasadim the origin of worlds and the regeneration of
individuals emerge through chaos. References to chaos in visual art mirror the nonlinear
complexity of life. Keywords: nonlinear, psychology, art, creativity, paradigm |