How do aesthetics play a role in our mental health and emotional wellbeing? In this episode of Design Deep Dive, I chat with Dr. Jan Mikuni, a researcher in the psychology of art and aesthetics, about the intricate relationship between aesthetics, psychology, and design. Jan’s work explores aesthetic experiences in everyday life—ranging from encounters with artwork and museum exhibitions to interactions with urban environments—and how these experiences shape human perception, emotion, and behavior. Her core interest lies not only in understanding the nature and quality of aesthetic experiences, but also in examining their broader societal impact.

Jan shares her journey into the field of aesthetic psychology, discussing how environments and design influence human perception, emotion, and behavior. We explore concepts such as museum fatigue, the importance of aesthetics in wellbeing, and the psychological implications of our relationship with place. We also discuss the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance the understanding and application of aesthetic principles in design, with the aim of improving individual and societal wellbeing.

In this episode:

• Aesthetics as a psychological process, not just about beauty
• Understanding our relationship to place is essential for our mental health
• Design as a tool for self-reflection and emotion regulation
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in enhancing the fields of design and psychology

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Connect with Jan:

Website: https://jan-mikuni.com/en/

Empirical Visual Aesthetics (EVA) Lab

Connect with Dr. Za:

Website: www.designwithdrza.com

Email: suzan@designwithdrza.com

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/designwithdr.za/⁠⁠⁠

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