Arts and Health

Arts and HealthIn 2012–2013 Engage Cymru ran two visual arts and wellbeing projects aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of the target groups, combating perceptions of mental health and ability, and helping galleries and artists to increase their capacity and expertise to work with new audiences.

Engage Cymru worked in partnership with Oriel Myrddin, Arts Care and artist Julia Griffiths-Jones alongside adults recovering from mental health concerns in Carmarthenshire who produced an exhibition of incredible wire sculpture which was shown at the National Botanic Gardens of Wales. In addition, Aberystywth Arts Centre led a project with Penparcau Progressive Action Group who are a group of adults recovering from stroke and living with a variety disabilities.

Both projects enhanced both the social needs and creative aspirations of the groups and focused on what the participants could achieve, rather than what they couldn’t. Both projects addressed key action points in the Arts Council of Wales Arts in Health and Wellbeing Action Plan and the Welsh Government Together for Mental Health: A Strategy for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Wales.

Wired!

An Oriel Myrddin, Arts Care and Engage Cymru project aimed at challenging perceptions of mental health.

Penparcau Progressive Action Group

Aberystywth Arts Centre led this project with a group of adults recovering from stroke and living with a variety disabilities.