Together with JALT ART SIG, this issue explores the intersection of the arts, language teaching, and the brain. In the Lite video, the BBC reporter shares her thoughts and feelings about paintings in an art museum while her brain waves are displayed on a computer monitor. In the Main podcast episode, Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen talk about neuroaesthetics and the ways the arts enrich our lives. As a special treat, our More video features the Frankfurt Radio Symphony under the direction of Alain Altinoglu performing Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Then, Heather Kretschmer introduces the Think Tank.

In the Think Tank, William Tiley makes a compelling case for using art as a basis for discussion in the language classroom. Then, Brennan Conaway reflects on the limitations of physical classrooms and offers practical strategies for working around these restraints. Lee Soung-Won describes inviting children outside to experience nature and create art, while Mimi Masson and Shawna M. Carroll explore activities combining art and language aimed at helping students reflect on their identities and develop their language skills. Elfrieda Lepp-Kaethler and Katy Maria Shimp look at the negative impacts of trauma on learning, highlighting the ways in which art can facilitate healing and learning. Next, Jamie Emerson examines human vision and gives expert advice on designing inclusive visual aids. Finally in our Plus, Mirela C. C. Ramacciotti writes about how sensations impact our perceptions and affect learning.