Link of Emotions with Textures

Our emotions are often stirred by the textures that surround us. These senses have the ability to evoke a wide array of emotions, shaping our perceptions and responses to the world. Through a diverse range of textures, emotions can be stimulated in different ways, influencing our moods and feelings (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

One of the most fundamental emotions tied to textures is comfort. Soft and plush textures, exemplified by materials like velvet or fleece, envelop us in a sense of coziness and ease. Conversely, rough and prickly textures such as sandpaper or thorns can provoke irritation and discomfort, highlighting the intricate relationship between touch and emotion (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

Smooth and silky textures, like satin or polished wood, have the ability to bring pleasure and positive emotions. On the other hand, uneven or unpredictable textures, such as a rocky surface or a disordered pile of objects, can instill anxiety and unease within us. The gentle touch of cool breezes or water induces relaxation, contrasting with the dynamic and energetic textures that elicit excitement, such as the vibrations of a phone or a bumpy ride (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

Nostalgia, a complex emotion, is often evoked by textures associated with past experiences. The feel of an old family photo or a childhood blanket can transport us back in time, eliciting a deep sense of nostalgia. Disgust, reaction, arises from slimy, sticky, or gooey textures, triggering feelings of repulsion. In contrast, intricate and complex textures found in artwork or rare gems inspire awe and wonder, enriching our emotional experiences (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

Tenderness, a delicate emotion, is stirred by gentle and soft textures like a baby's skin or a fragile flower petal, evoking feelings of care and affection. Sadness, can be produced by worn or tattered textures such as frayed fabric or a crumbling building, invoking a sense of nostalgia. Curiosity, a driving force for exploration, emerges from unfamiliar textures or objects with unique tactile qualities, sparking a desire to delve deeper into the unknown (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

Crucially, these emotional responses to textures are deeply personal and can vary from person to person. Individual experiences and cultural backgrounds play a significant role in shaping these responses. Texture, as a powerful sensory cue, contributes significantly to our overall perception of the world, enriching our emotional lives and adding depth to our human experience (Marina & Korolkova, 2019).

To reflect on the research I found I did some test shooting and reflected on how I felt after analyzing the photographs.

This texture triggered some unease and disgust emotions in me because I cannot stand slimy surfaces and it made me remember myself slipping and nearly breaking my leg 5 years ago on the same texture.

This texture triggered emotions of serenity and peace in me because always feel in peace when I am near the water.

This texture triggered emotional anxiety and discomfort because it made me remember all the construction that is taking over virgin land in our country.

References

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).

Marina, I. and Korolkova, O. (2019) Emotions associated with different textures during touch, Consciousness and Cognition. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810018304720#:~:text=Overall%2C%20all%20textures%20were%20associated,fear%2C%20disgust%20and%20anger). (Accessed: 05 November 2023).