The boogie-woogie approach to creativity in art and science

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2024 Sep 24;121(39):e2413304121. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2413304121. Epub 2024 Sep 19.

Abstract

The Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, famous for his geometric grid paintings, was an ardent jazz fan. In the late stage of his career, he became intrigued with boogie-woogie music, which inspired him to paint his masterpiece Broadway Boogie Woogie. While boogie-woogie and science operate in different domains, both share the characteristics of experimentation, improvisation, and pushing boundaries—whether it is creating new piano rhythms and melodies or creating new ways to discover innovative solutions to problems in art and science.

MeSH terms

  • Art*
  • Creativity*
  • Humans
  • Science*