About us
The Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics was founded with the vision of bringing the Memphis community together by merging its rich arts and culture with advanced science for the benefit of both the local population and the broader world.
We are dedicated to exploring the profound impact of auditory and visual stimuli—such as music, visual arts, and architecture—on the human brain, health, and behavior. As leaders in applied neuroaesthetics, we focus on understanding the biological and neural mechanisms by which aesthetic experiences enhance well-being, healing, and human potential. By integrating advanced neuroscience with the arts, our mission is to develop and implement innovative, evidence-based methods and technologies that harness the arts for therapeutic purposes and community improvement.
We collaborate closely with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), particularly within the Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology. This partnership positions us as a leading research-to-practice hub, fostering inter-departmental and inter-institutional synergy. By integrating efforts with UTHSC’s Neuroscience Institute, Cancer Program, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Neurology, and Department of Psychiatry, among others, we ensure a multidisciplinary approach to our research and programs.
Through an extensive network of community partners—including the Memphis city government, schools, cultural organizations, healthcare systems, businesses, and volunteers—we integrate neuroaesthetics into everyday life. This allows our research and programs to have a transformative impact on the community while advancing human well-being by blending science and art.
The Ozmo Institute also functions as a think tank, bringing together local and international experts from diverse fields—such as neuroscience, healthcare, education, technology, and the arts—to shape groundbreaking research, policies, and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible for both communities and industries.
Photos of Crosstown Concourse by P. Lloyd Paul and Amurica Photo.