Scientific Evidence

We’ve all thought it.

Do the arts, creativity and self-expression really help us?

Sure, we know what it’s like to feel a bit lighter or happier after meaningful interactions with the arts. But can we really justify prioritizing the arts as a part of our process for health and wellness?

We think yes.

And we’ve gathered these research articles that prove just how much we need it.

Read on to see how the arts can actually aid in tangible, scientifically backed, physiological and emotional healing.

Article 1: Summary on The Telegraph about how experiencing awe and wonder from the arts can lower inflammation which increases a person’s overall health, aiding in their ability to fight off diseases

Article 2: “The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals” participated in a study which placed photographs in Italian cancer treatment hospitals and found results stating that patients who viewed photographs of natural landscapes increased their trust and hope.

Article 3: Collection of scientific research articles from “The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals” (a foundation dedicated to placing nature photographs into hospitals)

Webpage: Webpage from “Healing Power of Art and Artists” that displays multiple articles about various aspects of art being placed in hospitals.

Article 4: A Psychology Today article on two studies; one study assesses the use of art therapy as a pain management tool while the other looks at neurological functions during art creation

Article 5: A Psychology Today summary of 3 separate studies that share research on how viewing or experiencing art and attending art venues (such as museums, concerts, theater etc) reduces loneliness while releasing endorphins, dopamine and other chemicals that all aid in the increase of joy and decrease of depression

Article 6: A Psychology Today list of studies that explore scientific evidence of music’s benefits on health improvement.

Article 7: Study done by art therapist who concludes that we should assess creative expression like we do healthy eating, exercise and emotional well-being.

Article 8: Results of a children’s hospital in London testing out the healing power of art and design