Art and Wellbeing: How Art Can Boost Happiness

Since humans first created artworks on the walls of caves and pyramids, art has been a vital part of our existence. Throughout all cultures, we are drawn to create and appreciate art in a variety of ways.

But why is art so important? Why do we enjoy gazing at a beautiful painting or photo so much? Surely there’s more to art than its ability to brighten a room?
Well, it turns out there is.

Research has proven there is a strong link between art and wellbeing. We feel better not only when we create art, but when we appreciate it, too.

Let’s dive a little deeper into how art can boost your wellbeing and happiness.

Art and Wellbeing: How Art Can Boost Happiness

Viewing Art Can Make You Happier and Healthier

Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Munch’s Scream, Monet’s water lilies and Picasso’s cubism creations all draw enormous crowds every year. There’s no denying that viewing these classic treasures gives us access to a slice of history. But, there’s much more to be gained from looking upon beautiful photos or paintings – renowned or not.

Studies have shown that a visit to a museum or gallery can result in positive outcomes for your mental wellbeing and physical health.

For example, one study in Norway focused on people’s participation in cultural activities. Researchers discovered that those who did this regularly experienced higher rates of good health and life satisfaction and lower rates of anxiety and depression.

Positive Wellbeing Benefits

This link between art and wellbeing applied to those who created the art and those who consumed it, meaning the viewers got just as much out of the art as the artists.

A more recent study conducted by Professor Semir Zeki, a neurobiologist based at the University of London, was just as informative.

He scanned the brains of volunteers as they viewed 28 works of art. The data revealed that when someone is gazing at art that they find beautiful, the brain immediately releases a surge of dopamine – the happiness chemical related to feelings of pleasure and love.

“The reaction was immediate. What we found was the increase in blood flow was in proportion to how much the painting was liked,” said Zeki.
Viewing art can literally make you feel good.

The Connection Between Art And Wellbeing

Art and wellbeing are intrinsically connected. There are advantages to be gained from creating it or simply observing the process or finished product.

And for those who feel like they don’t have a creative bone in their body, the good news is that “skill” doesn’t matter. Whether you’re painting a masterpiece or colouring in your adult colouring book, you’ll benefit from lower stress levels and increased resilience.

Creativity Boosts Wellness

Increasingly, scientists are deepening their knowledge about how closely linked the mind and body are. A healthy mind promotes a healthy body, and vice versa.
That helps explain why some studies have shown that art can even help improve physical health in people diagnosed with illnesses. The benefits can include lower stress, less pain, shorter hospital visits and better health outcomes.

Increase Your Wellbeing By Welcoming More Art Into Your Life

We could all use a little more calmness, wellness and beauty in our lives. It can be difficult for everyone to access museums and galleries, but that doesn’t need to stop you from appreciating art and experiencing all the benefits associated with it.

Choose a photograph, painting or print that gives you goosebumps, makes you smile, or simply gives you pleasure to look at, and give it prime position in your home or office.

Then, you’ll have access to a dopamine boost whenever you need it. Browse our art range in the shop today to add a little extra happiness to your life.

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