World Art Day (15 April) is a global celebration that honours the contributions of artists and promotes the importance of the arts in our lives. The day also marks the birthday of the famous artist, Leonardo da Vinci, who is regarded as one of the greatest artists of all time.
Dr. Christina Davies, Chief Investigator of the Good Arts, Good Mental Health project based at the University of Western Australia, said “There is much to learn, share and celebrate on World Art Day.”
“Arts engagement is linked with better mental wellbeing and connection to others. Thanks to artists, arts organisations and the funders that support the Arts, our community is provided with activities and events that bring us so much joy, happiness, enjoyment, entertainment, and positive shared experiences.”
On World Arts Day, people should reflect on who their favourite artists, musicians, authors and performers are, and the positive impact the arts have on their lives – especially on their mental health and wellbeing.
“Arts activities that people may like to take part in on World Art Day include painting, drawing, listening to music, singing, dancing, reading a book, attending a local performance, festival, library, gallery, or even an art class,” Dr Davies said.
Each year, World Art Day helps to reinforce the links between artistic creations, community wellbeing, encourages greater awareness of the diversity of artistic expression, and highlights the contribution of artists.
“You don’t have to be good at art for the arts to be good for you. It’s about having a go and taking part in the arts activities that make you feel good” Dr Davies said.
Over the past 12 months the Good Arts, Good Mental Health project team have worked with more than 3,000 community members on research, confirming that people are keen to learn more about the mental wellbeing benefits of recreational arts.
Free arts resources are available for download from the UWA Good Arts, Good Mental Health website.
The Good Arts, Good Mental Health project is supported by the Western Australian Future Health Research and Innovation Fund, which is an initiative of the WA State Government, the Minderoo Foundation, The Ian Potter Foundation, the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, CircuitWest and St John of God Health Care.
Image 1: “Rainbow”, acrylic on canvas. Artist: C Davies