Title: Task: 1.3.4 The importance of art and culture for well-being
Course: Art and creative expression 1 cp (VIERKO TP1) > Section: 1. Recognising the importance of cultures and art for wellbeing

The importance of art and culture for well-being

Engaging in art and cultural activities offers many benefits that impact both mental and physical well-being: 

Creating or experiencing art, such as painting, listening to music, or attending theater, helps express emotions and can provide ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other negative feelings. Many studies show that art promotes mental health by improving self-awareness and reducing symptoms of depression. 

Participating in art activities enhances cognitive skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, and imagination.

Cultural activities, such as visiting museums or reading literature, can increase knowledge and improve the ability to understand different perspectives and worldviews (Helpful Professor). 

Engaging in cultural activities, such as watching theater or attending concerts, creates opportunities for social interaction and can strengthen the sense of belonging. Art connects people from diverse backgrounds, promoting cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. 

Immersing oneself in art, whether through listening to music or creating art, can reduce stress and help with relaxation. This is partly because art activates the brain's reward system and fosters a state of relaxation. 

For example, theater performances and literature can help people better understand others' emotions and motives, enhancing empathy and social awareness (Greater Good). 

Cultural activities, such as dancing or choir singing, can also offer physical benefits, as they promote exercise, improve body coordination, and support heart health. 

Engaging in art and cultural activities can bring psychological, physical, and social benefits, making it an important component of overall well-being. 

Instructions for the task

Answer the questions:  

- What art or cultural experience has been particularly meaningful in your life and positively impacted you? 
- How do you think art and cultural experiences contribute to human well-being? 
- What types of art and cultural experiences do you find most interesting? Why? 

Additional reading:

The intersection of art and health: How art can help promote well-being 2023. The intersection of art and health: How art can help promote well-being - Mayo Clinic Press  

What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being? A scoping review 2019. What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being? A scoping review (who.int)  

Task-specific guidance on the use of AI

- Use of AI is not allowed in this task.

This is how you return the task:

To return the assignment, click on the Add submission -button below.

Return online text: type your answer in the text box. Click the Save Changes button to confirm your text.

The maximum length of a response is 300 words.

- The task will be assessed passed - to be completed (hyväksytty – täydennettävä)