The healing power of art - whether beautiful or confronting
In some countries Art on Prescription is already a reality, in others it is still evolving. In this Vogue interview, Matthew Pelowski, psychology professor at the University of Vienna, explains why art has such a powerful impact on mental health.
Even a brief encounter with art can reduce anxiety, lift moods and ease loneliness. Art stimulates the brain’s reward centres, encourages reflection and fosters emotional connections. Museums and theatres also play a role by offering a break from routine and enabling us to socialise and escape our everyday lives.
The effectiveness of a particular piece of art depends on what is meaningful or personally relevant to the viewer. Some find solace in Impressionist works, others prefer music or dance. Pelowski recommends that people try out what appeals to them most. Culture organisations could offer tasting experiences to facilitate this. But art doesn't just make us feel 'better', art can also confront, irritate or make us feel uncomfortable. Interestingly, this can also be important for our wellbeing in terms of personal development and reflection. As research grows, Art on Prescription may become a mainstream way to enhance wellbeing.
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The healing power of art - whether beautiful or confronting
In some countries Art on Prescription is already a reality, in others it is still evolving. In this Vogue interview, Matthew Pelowski, psychology professor at the University of Vienna, explains why art has such a powerful impact on mental health.
Even a brief encounter with art can reduce anxiety, lift moods and ease loneliness. Art stimulates the brain’s reward centres, encourages reflection and fosters emotional connections. Museums and theatres also play a role by offering a break from routine and enabling us to socialise and escape our everyday lives.
The effectiveness of a particular piece of art depends on what is meaningful or personally relevant to the viewer. Some find solace in Impressionist works, others prefer music or dance. Pelowski recommends that people try out what appeals to them most. Culture organisations could offer tasting experiences to facilitate this. But art doesn't just make us feel 'better', art can also confront, irritate or make us feel uncomfortable. Interestingly, this can also be important for our wellbeing in terms of personal development and reflection. As research grows, Art on Prescription may become a mainstream way to enhance wellbeing.
Interested in more stories like this? Sign up to our monthly newsletter.
The healing power of art - whether beautiful or confronting
In some countries Art on Prescription is already a reality, in others it is still evolving. In this Vogue interview, Matthew Pelowski, psychology professor at the University of Vienna, explains why art has such a powerful impact on mental health.
Even a brief encounter with art can reduce anxiety, lift moods and ease loneliness. Art stimulates the brain’s reward centres, encourages reflection and fosters emotional connections. Museums and theatres also play a role by offering a break from routine and enabling us to socialise and escape our everyday lives.
The effectiveness of a particular piece of art depends on what is meaningful or personally relevant to the viewer. Some find solace in Impressionist works, others prefer music or dance. Pelowski recommends that people try out what appeals to them most. Culture organisations could offer tasting experiences to facilitate this. But art doesn't just make us feel 'better', art can also confront, irritate or make us feel uncomfortable. Interestingly, this can also be important for our wellbeing in terms of personal development and reflection. As research grows, Art on Prescription may become a mainstream way to enhance wellbeing.
Interested in more stories like this? Sign up to our monthly newsletter.
