The Cultural-Match Effect on Art Appreciation in Adolescents

Abstract

The cultural-match effect on art appreciation refers to a higher aesthetic evaluation of artworks that match the viewers’ cultural background. The present study examines this effect in Western adolescents. We hypothesized longer viewing time (H1) and higher art appreciation (H2) for culturally matching (Western) than mismatching (Eastern) paintings. Representing three age groups (12–13, 14–15, and 16–17 years old), Polish adolescents were tested in a lab. They viewed images of paintings that varied in origin (West vs. East) and time period (historic vs. contemporary), while their viewing time and ratings of art appreciation were obtained. H1 was supported as the participants viewed culturally matching paintings for longer. H2 was partially supported as the cultural-match effect interacted with time period and age group. H2 was supported within historic paintings and mainly among the oldest age group. Hence, the cultural-match effect among adolescents might not generalize to contemporary art.