Healing Arts Scotland was a country-wide celebration of arts and health led by Scottish Ballet and the Jameel Arts & Health Lab in collaboration with the World Health Organization(WHO), that took place 19 – 23 August.
We were delighted to be part of Healing Arts Week, and to connect with so many art and health colleagues from across the globe. All of Hearts & Minds work in healthcare has been mapped by Healing Arts Scotland, raising awareness of our work across all our programmes, and building our connections in this important sector.
Artistic Directors Lucy and Diane along with Joanne, Head of Development, attended the conference in Edinburgh and were inspired by speakers from organisations including the World Health Organisation, NHS Scotland, Jameel Arts, Scottish Ballet, Maui Arts and Cultural Centre (Hawaii), Wind Dancer's Trust (India) and University of Florida. It was wonderful to hear advocacy for healthcare clowning, and for Hearts & Minds, during the opening welcome to the conference from W.H.O Arts and Health Lead, Christopher Bailey.
Diane said: "It was empowering for us to represent Hearts & Minds within a global network of artists, organisations, and clinicians. Lucy and I spoke at the Glasgow Day in Tramway. I represented the Clowndoctors programme on a panel discussion about young people and health. Lucy delivered a presentation about the Elderflowers programme and Bonnie and Spud Elderflower interacted with participants and delegates."
Joanne said: "This was the most prominent arts and health event ever held in Scotland, attracting leading experts, strategists, and decision-makers from around the globe. It has showcased the extensive range and high quality of work produced by our artists and arts organisations, as well as the significant impact our work has on individual and community well-being. Continuing these conversations and building strong partnerships with health and government agencies across the UK has the opportunity to reshape the future of the nation’s health."
As part of the programme organised by Scottish Ballet our artist Suzie Ferguson delivered a workshop “Clowning for Wellbeing” It was fully subscribed and received wonderful feedback:
“As a first-time clown I felt safe, but also challenged just the right amount. I laughed and learned and would love to do more”
“I really enjoyed this session. I felt it was important to take time for myself and focus back in on play. I think Suzie does this really well - she made everyone feel comfortable and there was never an expectation for anyone to do anything.”
To find out more about all the events during this exciting week go to the Healing Arts website
