First Blush: People's Intuitive Reactions to Famous Art

How good are we at truly understanding what imagery does and doesn't grab our attention, and makes us care? This groundbreaking book tackles that question by using two unique scientific tools to provide objective, quantifiable see/feel answers. First Blush is twice as large in scope as any study ever conducted before that links eye-tracking technology and world-class art. It also draws on facial coding to capture and identify people's quick, real-time emotional responses to 88 famous art works, across eras, from da Vinci and Rembrandt to the latest contemporary creations. "Art is either plagiarism or revolution," wrote Paul Gauguin. Welcome to revolution. You won't find another art book like First Blush anywhere else.

"This is the book I wish I had when I was writing The Photographer's eye. An inspired choice of artworks, including much photography, finally put to the test." Michael Freeman, author of more than 40 books on photography

"Dan Hill has a rare knack for being entertaining and educational at the same time. Much more than a coffee table art book, First Blush captures practical implications." Dr. Stephen J. Genco, co-author of Neuromarketing for Dummies

"Using a range of techniques, Dan gives great insight into why we react as we do." Susan Hodge, author of How to Survive Modern Art

"What's the actual experience one has in standing before a work of art, taking it in? Nobody is better prepared than Hill to give us the inside scoop. . . And as an art insider of long-standing, I find that fascinating." Eric Smith, CEO, Redwood Media Group

"Fascinating insights . . . First Blush could very well be a game changer for museum enggement and interpretation." Suzanne Wright, Retired Director of Education and Community Engagement, The Phillips Collection