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Writer's pictureJireh Grace Pihoc

Healing Surrealistic Forms

Updated: Feb 14, 2024


Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century and is characterized by a dream-like or irrational approach to art, often featuring bizarre or unexpected juxtapositions. While surrealism is not inherently tied to mental health, many surrealists were interested in exploring the workings of the unconscious mind, which can be seen as a reflection of their interest in psychology and mental health.


Some surrealists, such as Salvador Dali and Max Ernst, were known to have struggled with mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Dali, in particular, was known to have been deeply influenced by the work of Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, and incorporated many of Freud's theories and ideas into his artwork.



Overall, while not all surrealists were necessarily interested in mental health, the movement's focus on the unconscious and the irrational can be seen as reflecting a broader cultural interest in exploring the workings of the human mind and the nature of mental illness.


The impact of surrealistic forms and architecture on mental health is a complex topic that has not been extensively studied. However, there are some potential ways in which surrealistic forms and architecture could be beneficial for mental health.


One possible way that surrealistic forms and architecture could improve mental health is by providing a sense of novelty and stimulation. Novel and interesting environments have been shown to be beneficial for mental health, as they can help to reduce boredom and increase feelings of pleasure and engagement. Surrealistic forms and architecture can often be highly stimulating and visually engaging, which could help to promote positive emotions and reduce stress.



Additionally, surrealistic forms and architecture can sometimes challenge our assumptions and expectations about the world, which could help to promote cognitive flexibility and creativity. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with rigid thinking patterns or who are feeling stuck in their lives.


Finally, surrealistic forms and architecture can sometimes evoke a sense of wonder and awe, which could help to promote feelings of transcendence and connectedness. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals who are struggling with feelings of isolation or disconnection.



It's worth noting, however, that the impact of surrealistic forms and architecture on mental health is likely to vary depending on the individual and their particular needs and preferences. Some individuals may find surrealistic forms and architecture to be overwhelming or disorienting, while others may find them to be highly inspiring and uplifting.


There is limited research on the specific impact of surrealistic forms and architecture on mental health. While there have been some studies on the impact of art and architecture on mental health more broadly, these studies have typically not focused specifically on surrealism.


One study, published in the Journal of Aesthetic Education, explored the impact of exposure to abstract art on mental health. The study found that exposure to abstract art was associated with increased creativity and decreased levels of anxiety. While the study did not focus specifically on surrealism, it did suggest that exposure to non-representational art forms could be beneficial for mental health.



Surrealistic architecture is a relatively rare and unconventional style of architecture that incorporates elements of surrealism, such as unexpected shapes and forms, distorted proportions, and dream-like or otherworldly qualities.


It's important to note that surrealistic forms and architecture are not commonly used in mental health centers or correctional facilities, as these environments typically prioritize functionality, safety, and security over artistic expression. However, there are a few instances where surrealistic elements have been incorporated into these types of facilities.


While mental health centers are typically designed to be calming and soothing spaces, some architects have explored more surrealistic forms and designs for these facilities as a way to challenge traditional notions of mental health treatment and create a distinctive environment for patients.



Overall, while surrealistic forms and architecture are not commonly used in mental health centers or correctional facilities, there is some evidence to suggest that incorporating elements of nature and sensory stimulation can be beneficial for patients and prisoners. However, it's important to balance these design elements with considerations of safety and functionality, and to prioritize the needs and preferences of the users of these facilities.

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