The link between cannabis and art

Artists of many different types have long made use of cannabis as a method of creative enhancement to expand their artistic horizons, including musicians, painters, photographers, sculptors, and more.

Cannabis has influenced many famous and much-loved artists and as the push towards full legalization marches on, but just what are the specific links between art and cannabis?

There is scientific evidence suggesting a link between cannabis, art and creativity, with neurologists pointing out that the frontal lobe of the brain is stimulated by the drug, with that area being particularly sensitive in people who are very creative. Cannabis is essentially a stimulant, and such drugs tend to boost any kind of output.

In terms of creative productivity, the effect that is made on us by cannabis is usually dependent on dosage as well as individual traits, as everyone is affected by cannabis in a different way. This means that while some artists may be positively inspired by the use of the drug, it may have the opposite effect on others.

However there is no doubt that frontal lobe activity is increased by the use of cannabis, so individuals will need to find the right amount that can help them with their own creative enhancement and open up their minds to new possibilities.

Artists with anxiety may use indica to help calm them down while others may prefer sativa to give them enhanced motivation, but whatever the individual preference, the likes of Pablo Picasso and William Shakespeare are among the many artists that have used the drug to help in the creation of their works for many hundreds of years.