Mindfulness at the Mint offers a welcoming space for self-care and gaining knowledge about art.

By Diane Lowry and Joel Smeltzer

Practicing mindfulness techniques while slow looking at art can have a positive impact on health and well-being. According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, “Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.”
Researchers have found that the average time that adults spend looking at one work of art in a museum is less than 30 seconds. What do we miss when we look so quickly? Slow looking is a foundation of art engagement. It encourages us to be present, patient, and willing to immerse ourselves in the act of observation.
Mindfulness, the practice of focusing on the present moment while observing one’s thoughts and feelings, can reduce stress, increase self-awareness and encourage empathy towards others. Integrating guided slow looking and breathwork into gallery programs at the Mint offer a concentrated focus on works of art. Colors, and subject matter. It becomes an immersive and sensory experience. One notices more nuances and details, makes discoveries, and during facilitated dialogue with Mint staff and others in the group, gain knowledge about the works of art.

Mindfulness and slow-looking programs provide a plethora of mind and body benefits, including:
– Stress relief through being present, slowing down, breathing, which in turn can help to lower blood pressure and heart rate, and increase feelings of calm and well-being.
– Relationship building by feeling heard and sharing perceptual experiences that are relatable through the works of art.
– Discovery and connectedness through conversations about the meaning of the works and feelings sparked by the works of art.

Tips for slow looking:
Take some time to pause, relax and look mindfully while visiting the museum and galleries.
– Pick a work of art from the collection either online or in person in the gallery. Spend several minutes looking closely at the art.
– Rest your eyes on the art with a soft gaze, breathe deeply, and be aware of your inhale and exhale.
– Allow your emotions, curiosity, and personal connections to the work of art come into your awareness.
– Be mindful of the small details. What do you notice?
– You may want to make a mental note of what you are seeing or write your thoughts in a notebook. You can also do some sketching as you look.
– If you are with a friend, talk about it. Did you notice different things?

Joel Smeltzer is head of school and gallery programs at The Mint Museum. Diane Lowry is a docent and guest services associate at The Mint Museum. She also is a certified mindfulness meditation guide with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and 20 years of experience as a healing arts practitioner.