Why Some Artists Swear by Psychedelics—And Others Avoid Them
- Filip
- Apr 12
- 2 min read
Psychedelics and art go way back—think trippy album covers, surrealist paintings, and mind-bending performances. LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, DMT—they’ve all left their mark on creative culture. But while some artists swear these substances unlock next-level inspiration, others steer clear, wary of the risks and unpredictability. So what’s the deal—are psychedelics the ultimate creative hack or a risky gamble?
Why Do Some Artists Use Psychedelics?
For many creatives, psychedelics crack open the mind, making visuals pop, sounds feel richer, and abstract ideas click into place. A 2019 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that psychedelics can boost creativity and problem-solving by breaking down mental walls and boosting cognitive flexibility.
Some artists say psychedelics help them break free from creative blocks, seeing the world from angles they never imagined. Others prefer microdosing—taking tiny, non-hallucinogenic amounts—to sharpen focus, enhance mood, and tap into creative flow without losing control.
The Risks: Why Some Artists Avoid Psychedelics
Psychedelics aren’t all rainbows and masterpieces. Bad trips can get intense, triggering anxiety and emotional overwhelm. Even at low doses, some artists fear losing creative control or becoming dependent on substances to spark inspiration.
Plus, psychedelics are unpredictable—what sparks genius one day might leave you staring at a blank canvas the next. And let’s not forget the legal side—depending on where you live, using psychedelics could land you in serious trouble.
Psychedelics and Creativity: What Science Says
Research shows psychedelics can increase brain connectivity and quiet the default mode network (DMN)—the brain region linked to repetitive, habitual thinking. This shift may explain why artists feel more open-minded and imaginative during psychedelic experiences.
But it’s not a guaranteed creativity boost. Some studies suggest mindset and environment matter as much as the substance itself. Plus, the placebo effect is real—if you expect psychedelics to fuel your creativity, chances are they will.
The Bottom Line: Should Artists Try Psychedelics?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some artists, psychedelics unlock new levels of creativity and self-expression. For others, the risks and unpredictability outweigh the potential benefits. If you’re curious, do your homework—start with low doses, create in a safe environment, and understand the legal risks.
Want to dive deeper into the science of psychedelics and creativity? Check out Frontiers in Psychology and Imperial College London’s Psychedelic Research Centre.