The Art of Being Healthy and Well Symposium launched by Ministers Martin and Donnelly

‘The holistic nature of these types of artistic and cultural activities fits perfectly with our vision for health and wellbeing. Health is not just about the absence of disease, it is about recognising the importance and interconnectedness of physical, mental and social wellbeing.’

A series of panel discussions moderated by journalist and current affairs presenter, Olivia O’Leary, explored the role of creativity in people’s health.

The first panel, The case for improving health through arts and creativity, reflected on the evidence base, how it can underpin policy, and emerging trends nationally and internationally, with contributors Alexandra Coulter (Director, National Centre for Creative Health UK), Tom James (Head of Healthy Ireland, Department of Health) and Tania Banotti (Director, Creative Ireland Programme).

The second panel, Integrating medicine with arts and creativity, focused on hospital settings with perspectives from Professor Rose Anne Kenny (Chair of Medical Gerontology Trinity College Dublin and Director of MISA), Dr Michael O’Connor (National Clinical Advisor and Group Lead Acute Operations, HSE), Nathalie Weadick (Director, Irish Architecture Foundation), and Eilísh Hardiman (CEO, Children’s Health Ireland).

‘I am delighted to see the ongoing and new arts and health projects being showcased today that are being delivered across the health service. Health service staff, attending both in person and virtually, will benefit from today’s event, building their knowledge in this area and creating more opportunities and awareness as we continue to utilise creative arts to benefit the wellbeing of service users and staff.’

‘As the range of projects and discussion highlights, engagement and participation in the arts can make a significant contribution to our health and wellbeing. The Arts Council also sees the opportunities that this area of work presents for the many artists and arts organisations working in the area of Arts & Health, and values the important contribution of health sector colleagues, health service users, carers, friends and volunteers to the development and vibrancy of the arts in Ireland. We are committed to working with our colleagues at a national level to support the strategic development of this area into the future.’