A new British report documents and affirms the healing power of the arts using extensive research, interviews, and case studies.
Artsy.net brings us an editorial review with some highlights, below.
This new research begs the question, “What can churches do to bring healing through the arts in our communities?”
Some churches empower their artists to teach art lessons to Alzheimers patients, some provide arts lessons or arts camps for under-served kids, some host “Playback Theater” events, some, like Common Cathedral provide an art studio and training for the homeless. (More examples in Creative Church Handbook)
Why not brainstorm, pray, and see how your church might engage the arts in healing? Please let us know what you come up with, or share what is already working for you! [email protected]
Making and Looking at Art May Reduce Depression
and Doctor Visits, Report Suggests
We all know that art can change your life, but what about helping to save it? A new report has found evidence that the arts bring a wide range of health benefits, speeding medical recoveries and improving overall quality of life. Released last week in the U.K., “Creative Health: The Arts for Health and Wellbeing” details numerous instances where the arts offered medical improvements for those of every age. That includes art therapy (which reduced agitation in those with dementia) and music (lullabies were seen to calm the heart, lessening the hospital stays for newborn children in neonatal intensive care).
The nearly 200-page document is the result of two years of research, part of an investigation co-chaired by the Labour Party’s Alan Howarth and Conservative Ed Vaizey, both former arts ministers. It’s supplemented with over 300 testimonials from