We all know that artistic masterpieces are lovely to look at but new research shows that staring at great works of art can have the same effect on the brain as being in love. University College London professors scanned the brains of participants as they gazed at classic paintings by artists including Constable, Botticelli and Monet.
When looking at the art they perceived as the most beautiful, blood flow increased to the part of the brain associated with pleasure and desire by as much as 10 per cent. This pleasure reaction is the same as gazing at someone you love.
Paintings by Constable, French neoclassical artist Ingres and Italian painter Reni were responsible for the most intense reactions, while works of art by Bosch and Daimer produced the least blood flow.
So next time you need a pleasure fix, forget about finding a date, just head to an art gallery instead.
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