Seeing the Big Picture: How the Brain Manipulates our Visual World

Wed, 11 Feb, 2026 at 07:00 pm UTC-08:00

The Kiggins Theatre | Vancouver

Science on Tap - Oregon & Washington
Publisher/HostScience on Tap - Oregon & Washington
Seeing the Big Picture: How the Brain Manipulates our Visual World
Advertisement
When we open our eyes, are we perceiving reality? Why do we fail to agree on the color of “The Dress” (that went viral in 2015)? Have you ever glanced at ticking clock and noticed the second-hand suddenly freeze for a split second?
Neuroscience research suggests that the brain evolved to make rapid, best-guesses about the objects in our environment, rather than create a one-to-one representation of the world. Through stories and demonstrations, Dr. Mark Pitzer will discuss some of the effects of this strategy and how our visual system can highlight some objects, delete others, and alter our conscious awareness in an attempt to help us navigate our visual world.
Mark Pitzer, Ph.D. is a neuroscientist at the University of Portland. For the last 25 years he has worked to better understand and treat diseases of the brain, including Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. Currently, his lab studies how developmental influences in the womb can alter the number of dopaminergic neurons involved in movement and reward. Mark is also an award-winning teacher that uses the findings from the fields of learning and neuroscience to invoke enduring enthusiasm, curiosity and deep learning in his college students.
(This is a repeat of a popular 2023 show, with some updates.)
Advertisement

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St,Vancouver, Washington, United States

Tickets
Icon
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

Ask AI if this event suits you:

More Events in Vancouver

BoardReady Certification
Wed, 11 Feb at 08:00 am BoardReady Certification

Clark College Community and Continuing Education

SUPER Fancy Champagne Master Class in VANCOUVER
Thu, 12 Feb at 06:00 pm SUPER Fancy Champagne Master Class in VANCOUVER

Barnard Griffin - Vancouver

Plant & Seed Swap!
Fri, 13 Feb at 11:00 am Plant & Seed Swap!

2213 Main St, Vancouver, WA, United States, Washington 98663

St Johns Ward Pickleball Night
Fri, 13 Feb at 07:00 pm St Johns Ward Pickleball Night

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

February Forest Walk at Columbia Springs
Wed, 18 Feb at 03:30 pm February Forest Walk at Columbia Springs

12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, United States, Washington 98683

Family History Gathering
Thu, 19 Feb at 06:30 pm Family History Gathering

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Whiskey, Wine and Wheelchairs 2026
Fri, 20 Feb at 06:00 pm Whiskey, Wine and Wheelchairs 2026

RV inn Style Resorts Convention Center

Vancouver is Happening!

Never miss your favorite happenings again!

Explore Vancouver Events