Path with Art

How can engaging with the arts improve mental health?

At Path with Art, we’ve seen the answer at work for 18 years. That’s why we, along with the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, wanted to show the rest of the world.

In our research collaboration, our partners at International Arts + Mind Lab measured outcomes across self-efficacy, mental and emotional wellbeing, and social connection. The results were resoundingly clear: participants in Path with Art’s classes reported improvement across every metric.

✋90.3% of participants said that their belief in their own abilities increased.
🎨88.3% said their mental health improved.
🎭80.6% said they felt less lonely since attending PwA classes.
🌼69% said that they made new friends, helping them feel more socially connected.

The evidence supports what we witness every day: The arts help people feel more connected to themselves and to others. Which leads to better mental health.

This research has big implications. And we’re excited to share solutions that can change the very systems that shape our health.

Let us know in the comments: What excites you about art as an instrument for mental health?

A new study finds that the arts are not a luxury. In fact, they may be the public health solution we need now.

Path with Art and Johns Hopkins International Arts + Mind Lab have just released a landmark study validating that arts engagement is a proven and effective instrument for healing. Published in the peer-reviewed journal Health Promotion Practice, this research is a huge step for PwA as we advocate for the healing power of art for all.

Over the coming days and weeks, we'll be releasing exciting highlights from this groundbreaking research—plus ways this research is impacting health solutions in Seattle, Washington State, and beyond. Stay tuned, and check out the full press release here: https://pathwithart.org/advocacy-news/the-arts-are-not-a-luxury-they-are-the-solution-our-society-needs-now

Art is a life-changing remedy. And we have the model to prescribe it.

We have the power to create a health system that works for us. Donate TODAY to Create Health, and help us end Mental Health Awareness month strong: https://pathwithart.org/engage/mental-health-awareness-month

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for supporting us this month and always. 💛💜🎨

Mental health can be a challenge. For LGBTIQ+ individuals, that challenge is often magnified.

Path with Art creates spaces that center q***r identity and expression. Join us for our upcoming exhibition: Q***r Visions, a powerful exploration of identity, q***r joy, and belonging, opening on Friday, June 5th at The Fishbowl.

Did you know? LGBTIQ+ adults are more than twice as likely as their heterosexual peers to experience a mental health condition. And a study found that 40% of LGBTIQ+ adults have experienced rejection from a friend or family member.

Our mission fosters inclusive community and connection through art. 80.6% of our participants report reduced loneliness. And since the introduction of q***r-centered programming at Path with Art, we've seen our LGBTQIA+ community grow.

As we near the end of Mental Health Awareness Month and turn the corner into Pride Month, we're reminded that mental health and inclusive, supportive community go hand in hand, day after day. At Path with Art, we see that when q***r artists thrive, so does their health. We invite you to see that power for yourself at Q***r Visions.

Join us for the opening reception on June 5 from 5:30-8p at The Fishbowl. RSVP here: https://pathwithart.org/events/q***r-visions-exhibition

Art is more than a creative endeavor. It literally changes our bodies.

Research shows engaging with arts has a similar risk-reducing effect on chronic pain as vigorous exercise.

Your donation helps bring the healing power of arts to everyone. Donate today: https://pathwithart.org/engage/mental-health-awareness-month/

Creating health happens in community. That's why we love events like this past Thursday's Art After Hours: because, in spaces like these, we see the remedy at work.

Many thanks to the old friends and new faces who joined us for a night of art-making! And huge thanks to our guest artist, Angharad Caceres, for sharing her passion and expertise for figurative collage.

Path with Art is community, and that community is made possible because of you. Donate this Mental Health Awareness Month to keep community arts programming like Art After Hours free and accessible to all: https://pathwithart.org/engage/mental-health-awareness-month