WHO: What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being?

In 2019, the World Health Organization published the most comprehensive evidence review of arts and health to date... Read more
Enhancing a Primary Care Environment: A Study of Effects on Patients and Staff

In 2006, Bedminster Family Practice published a large-scale study examining the effects of the primary care environment on patients and staff... Read more
A Study of the Effects of Visual and Performing Arts in Healthcare

In 2003, Dr Rosalia Staricoff published the first attempt in the UK to evaluate the contribution of visual and performing arts in hospital settings... Read more

Key studies

There is a fast-growing body of evidence demonstrating the health and wellbeing benefits of art to patients, carers and communities. Here, we have gathered the major reports and studies that have helped shape the arts in health sector and that we hope will help you make a case for arts in health activities.

Creative Health Review 2023

The National Centre for Creative Health and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing's Creative Health Review shows that creative health is fundamental to a healthy and prosperous society and that it should be an integral part of a 21st century health and social care system – one that is holistic, person-centred, and which focusses on reducing inequalities and supporting people to live well for longer. Read more

Latest

OASIS (Art for the socially isolated scheme) review

The OASIS pilot project aimed to improve the lives of people with life-limiting conditions through art and creative engagement. It paired befriending volunteers with remote day patients, providing art activities and discussions. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, showing that the sessions were enjoyable and worthwhile, improving participants' moods and feelings.
Art Meets Book Evaluation

The ‘Art meets books’ project is a partnership between Paintings in Hospitals (PiH) and public libraries in four communities in London (Eltham and Woolwich) and the West Midlands (Dudley and Gornal). Libraries play an important role in building networks and supporting socio-economically disadvantaged communities. These reports evaluate participants' experiences with the project and its potential benefits.
Creative Health Review 2023

The National Centre for Creative Health and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing's Creative Health Review shows that creative health is fundamental to a healthy and prosperous society and that it should be an integral part of a 21st century health and social care system – one that is holistic, person-centred, and which focusses on reducing inequalities and supporting people to live well for longer.
BMJ Evidence for effects of viewing visual arts

This study published in the BMJ, reviewed the existing evidence on the effects of viewing visual artworks on stress outcomes, showing promising evidence for the effects of viewing artwork on reducing stress.