Art recognised as powerful tool for mental wellbeing across the region
The introduction of creativity into health care settings is proving effective
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
The impact of creativity on wellbeing is being celebrated across the region, through a locally led ‘art journal project’ which is said to be having a transformative impact on participants mental health.
Created by OutPost Arts, a Langholm based organisation, the project is being implemented as a wellbeing tool, to help those who may be struggling across the region.
Currently, participants join the programme after having it ‘socially prescribed’ to them, by a range of possible referral partners, including NHS Dumfries & Galloway, Dumfries & Galloway College, and Langholm Academy.
Following positive feedback from past and current participants, the team at OutPost Arts say they’re eager to expand the programmes reach through new points of contact.
Talking us through the Art Journal process is Tabitha Mudaliar, producer of Dumfries & Galloway Creative Wellbeing Network, which is led by OutPost Arts:
“Our participants come to us through social prescribing, that might be through their healthcare provider. These are people who are already being supported in a health care setting, and are then prescribed the art journal project.
“What they receive is a beautiful box of materials and art journals, and that includes pens, paper, coloured pencils, everything that you might need – bits and bobs for collage, some encouraging pieces of information- it’s all there in this lovely box.”
Creating a positive environment
“They then work with their teachers, there’s a class for younger people, and then there’s a class for 25 and above. They work with their art tutor every week, and that creates a safe space for them within the group, but then they also have a safe space within their art journal.”
OutPost Arts say the power of creativity in healthcare settings is huge, and are currently showcasing the work of art journal participants in the Atrium of Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary until Sunday.
The public can view the exhibition between 08:00 – 18:00, which is also available to staff at all times.
More information is available on the DG Creative Wellbeing website.