Museums as Spaces for Wellbeing – Art & Mindfulness Talks 

Overview

How can art museums foster wellbeing, learning, and connection? Moderated by neuroaesthetics researcher Saskia Wheeler, this conversation brings together neuroaesthetics researcher Dr. Corinna Kühnapfel and Fotografiska’s Cultural Events & Programming Manager Kristina Barekyan. Bringing together scientific research and museum practice, they explore the role of museums as spaces for slowing down, learning, and meaningful engagement – looking at how museum experiences, from physical spaces and programming to digital approaches, can support wellbeing and shape the way we engage with art.

About the moderator

Saskia Wheeler is a researcher and designer at the intersection of neuroaesthetics and spatial design. She translates neuroscience insights into spaces that enhance well-being in hospitality, culture, and wellness. With a Master’s in Psychology of the Arts (Goldsmiths), she collaborates on immersive art, spatial experiences, and design projects.

About the speakers

Dr. Corinna Kühnapfel is a postdoctoral researcher in neuroaesthetics (TU Berlin, AAC_Wonder project). She studies how art creates moving, transformative experiences. Her PhD (University of Vienna) explored bodily movement and installation art. Co-founder of EDGE e.V., she bridges art and neuroscience through exhibitions and events.

Kristina Barekyan is Cultural Events & Programming Manager at Fotografiska Berlin, curating and managing a programme at the intersection of art, education, and community. With MAs in Art History (MSU) and Art Management & Cultural Policy (Goldsmiths), she previously worked with documenta, the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, the V&A Museum, and the Pushkin Museum. She is the author of a publication on digital learning and education in museums (NEMO).

Timeline

• 18:30 – Doors Open
• 19:00 – Talk
• 20:00 – Wrap up

Tickets

• 0 € - Event