Though it may be easy to use admission prices as an excuse to not visit that new Van Gogh exhibit, it may be time to reconsider. The reason? It will probably make you happier than that Zara dress you’ve had your eye on.
Here’s proof: a recent study done by Harris Interactive found that people are statistically happier when they spend money on experiences as opposed to material items.
Leaf Van Boven, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at CU-Boulder noted that: “experiences are shown to create more happiness than material goods because they provide positive personal reinterpretations over time. That is, as we revisit the memory of our trip to the museum, we have a tendency to psychologically weed out any negative memories (should there be any). Experiences, such as visiting a museum, can also become a meaningful part of one’s identity and contribute to successful social relationships in a manner that material items cannot.”
Still need convincing? Here are three more reasons why going to museums should be a bigger priority in your life.
Their primary goal is to spark public intrigue in certain ideas, time periods, items, and areas of study. There is, however, “more going on in museums in regard to education than one might think,” according to colleendilen.com. “Schools rely heavily on museums to enhance the their curriculum.
The New York Museum Education Act, for example, aims to create a partnership between schools and cultural institutions to prepare students for the 21st century. Galleries are becoming classrooms, and not just for kids,” says the site. Even the history of the museums themselves serve to inspire visitors. Essentially, leaving any museum without gaining any new information is next to impossible.
As causal learning environments, museums are dedicated to what is called informal education — “a lifelong process whereby individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills and knowledge from daily experience and the educative influences and resources in his or her environment,” says Colleen Dilen.
The importance of this? It turns out that informal learning plays a vital role in how we perceive the world. It is estimated by the U.S. Department of Labor that 70 perecent of work-related learning happens beyond formal training. Colleen Dilen goes on to say that “a single visit to a museum can expose visitors to in-depth information on a subject, and the nature of the museum environment is one in which you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring exhibits.” This type of lenient environment means that individuals are allowed to create their own experiences and choose what information they absorb during their visit.
They have a social aspect to them as well — they allow you to discuss deep thoughts and opinions with friends and family, and become a part of the community. “There have been yoga classes at MoMA and Rock Band Summer Camps at the Experience Music Project. Museums are increasingly holding art chats, book signings, professional development classes, and even wine festivals and farmer’s markets.” There are always events going on, just hop online and see what your local museum has scheduled this week.
Museums have the power to deeply affect individuals and whole communities. They are a place of inspiration, knowledge and personal growth. So the next time you’re torn over how to spend your cash, consider that visiting a museum is proven to make you a happier person in the long run.
