Art Club: how creativity keeps us well

Many of us, instinctively, turn to the arts to feel good. Growing evidence supports this instinct: making and experiencing art may be one of the most powerful ways to boost health and happiness. Unpack the science of how creativity supports wellbeing in this talk and collaging workshop.

Join Professor Daisy Fancourt, one of the world’s leading researchers in arts and health, as she shares compelling evidence and real-world examples that show how engaging with the arts can influence the brain, reduce stress and pain, improve mental health, and help tackle loneliness.

Following the discussion, take part in a hands-on workshop where you'll create your own colourful collage self-portrait, drawing inspiration from Beth Suzanna's figurative paper-cut work and Professor Daisy Fancourt's research. Explore playful techniques and dynamic shapes and experience first-hand some of the ideas discussed, as you reflect on your relationship with creativity.

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Image credit: Beth Suzanna

About Art Club

Art Club is the British Academy’s regular creative series where you can learn about innovative research through making. Hear from leading researchers in the humanities and social sciences, then explore the ideas in an interactive workshop that puts research into practice.

The workshop is a relaxed event. Following a brief introduction from the facilitator, you’re free to move around the space, take a break or step outside whenever you like. Drinks and snacks are available at the bar throughout the evening.

Whether attending on your own or with friends, Art Club is a welcoming space to discover bold ideas, get creative, and meet new people.

Important Information

As tickets are free, we release more than the available seats to account for no-shows.

• Entry is first-come, first-served. We recommend arriving early to avoid disappointment.
• A ticket does not guarantee entry to the main event space. If it reaches capacity, you'll be directed to the bar next door to watch a live stream.

The panel will be recorded and live-streamed on YouTube, but the listening experience takes place in person only

This event has live subtitles delivered by 121 Captions.

See information about the accessibility of the venue.

If you have any questions about this event, please refer to our Public Events FAQs. If your question is not answered, please email events@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.

The British Academy is a registered charity, number 233176.