Wales begins arts and health mapping exercise

The nature and extent of arts and health activity taking place in Wales is the subject of a new mapping initiative being undertaken by the Arts Council of Wales (ACW).

The research will feed into a report that aims to build up a detailed picture of the current arts and health scene in the country and inform future policies.

ACW has launched a survey in collaboration with researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University, and is inviting responses from those working in the field of arts and health in Wales.

ACW Portfolio Manager Sally Lewis said: “We want to explore how the arts can make a greater contribution to the health and wellbeing of people in Wales and where our energy might best be focused moving forward. Arriving at a clear picture of the existing range of practice and activity on the ground is the first step on this journey.”

The survey is collecting details of recent, current and future arts and health projects, including those using the arts to deliver health and wellbeing outcomes for participants, and capital projects that engage artists to improve the physical environment of healthcare settings. It asks questions about the scope of projects and their administration, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

ACW is also inviting responses from those who have a professional interest or expertise in arts and health, but who do not have a specific project to report on.

The survey will run until 5 May.