Sixteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

The arts can help to keep us well, aid recovery, and support longer lives better lived. In addition ‘Arts and Health’ methods can be utilised as a means of promoting, maintaining, and improving mental wellbeing, social connection, physical health and reducing inequalities. This study provides an introduction to the innovative area of ‘Arts and Health’ to expand audience knowledge of how and why this collaborative method can benefit the community. This paper also provides arts-health program examples, specifically, the St John of God Health Care ‘cARTwheels project’ and ‘Music-for-Wellness’ program. We also share evaluation results in terms of the impact of these programs on patient mental wellbeing, pain management, skill attainment, enjoyment and the healthcare environment. Both project are examples of successful cross-disciplinary collaborations between St John of God Health Care, The University of Western Australia, and community artists/musicians.