Get in touch

In recognition of the deep history and culture of this Island Lutrawita, Richmond Futures would like to acknowledge and pay our respects to all Tasmanian Aboriginal people and acknowledge our respect for their culture and identity which has been bound up with the Land, Waterways and Sky for generations. We would also like to pay our respects to Elders, past and present for they hold the memories, knowledge, culture and hopes of Aboriginal Tasmania.

Richmond Futures is committed to continuously building an inclusive and safe organisational culture, where people can bring their whole (authentic and true) self. Diverse experiences, ways of knowing, thinking and working styles are valued, encouraged and respected because we recognise that expertise and knowledge comes in various forms. We work in solidarity with one another to create a workplace where everybody can belong, connect and succeed in their role. We do this by courageously sharing our different perspectives, radically listening, being open to reflection and change, and learning from each other.

How art can boost your mental health and wellbeing

Give a child some colourful pencils and a scrap of paper, and they will create a masterpiece.

Some of us maintain a close relationship with creativity throughout our lives. But for others, it can be easy to forget how soothing it feels to dig our hands into clay, or make a mess with wet paint.

Research has consistently shown that reconnecting with our inner artist can bring tangible benefits to mental health. And the best part is that almost every creative medium can improve wellbeing. From painting to poetry, art is a powerful tool helping those who make it – and those who observe it.

Richmond Futures celebrates Mental Health Week 2024 with The Art of Wellbeing, a new annual exhibition featuring artworks ranging from sculpture to drawing. Each piece has been locally handmade in the spirit of health and harmony, and everybody is welcome to view the works in the relaxed gallery spaces of Hobart and Launceston.

Why does art make us feel good?

When we start with basic materials – be it canvas or clay – we can create something we’re proud of. We can feel the sense of reward that comes from finishing a painting, or threading that final bead.

The therapeutic benefits of art were first taken seriously in the 1940s. In the decades since, the practice has flourished. Guided sessions, such as TasRec’s jewellery making, sewing, and pottery programs, help boost confidence and creativity alike.

The Art of Wellbeing curator Linda Dwyer has spent three years working with TasRec participants, and enjoys “watching friendships grow and supporting each other, and different participants finding their own talent and creativity”.

“Participants’ faces being really happy with their work – especially when they exceed their own expectations – that always touches my heart,” Linda says.

Art improves wellbeing by boosting serotonin, the chemical associated with happy and calm feelings, and by directing blood flow to the brain’s pleasure centre. It enhances focus and memory while reducing heart rate and stress levels.

Learning and practising a creative skill can even affect cognitive function, keeping the brain healthy and active later in life.

Enrich your quality of life

Perhaps most importantly, art therapy helps participants express their feelings, often without words. It’s adaptable to the unique needs of the participant, and is proven to help children and adults alike.

One Australian study showed how art provides a safe space for young people to process their experiences, and is especially helpful to children with diagnosed mental disorders.

For older adults at risk of loneliness, participation in art programs can become a valuable social outlet. Group activities foster community connections with fellow makers – and with friends, family, and members of the public who come to the gallery to see the pieces on display.

Linda says exhibitions like The Art of Wellbeing offer a positive way for participants to “proudly show their work”.

“The buzz at TasRec – getting their artwork ready, and picking their favourite pieces – gives the participants excitement and something to look forward to.”

The Art of Wellbeing features the artworks of up to 15 TasRec participants who used painting, drawing, sculpture, and beading to make more than 30 pieces.

To Linda, it’s a showcase of “their own personal growth”.

“I find myself very proud of their achievements, and we all love the feedback they hear back from the community on their pieces.”

Simply visiting exhibitions The Art of Wellbeing can also bring benefits: studies show that attending as little as one arts event per year can improve your mental health.

Mental Health Week 2024 could be the perfect way to begin your creative journey.

Richmond Futures presents The Art of Wellbeing in Hobart’s Waterside Pavilion from 5-12 October, and Launceston Library from 8 October-6 November. Full exhibition details online.

Learn more about the Richmond Futures TasRec programs.

Disclaimer: This blog is of a general nature. Please contact your medical professional for individualised support.