Art Cure

Even for those of us who have had a lifetime engagement with the arts, this rigorously researched, scientifically informed book is a revelation. It offers hard evidence of the value of participation in the arts for everyone, moving outwards from the transformative effect they can have on physical and mental health into a host of associated benefits improving and enriching our daily lives, as well as offering practical solutions, pathways and case studies. It could not be more timely, nor make a stronger, more urgent case for placing the arts at the centre of our communities. * Melvyn Bragg *Every day we are overwhelmed by advice on how to live better: diets, gadgets, supplements, exercises and a million other things. Art Cure is an amazing antidote to the deluge of nonsense. Her evidenced-based advice is for joyful, meaningful things that will expand our lives and our minds and help us take charge of our health. Everyone should read this book: it is accessible, entertaining but also a great piece of scholarship. * Xand van Tulleken *Imagine a dinner conversation with the smartest, most compassionate person you know, talking until the wee hours on science and beauty, and you will have some idea of what it is like to read this book. Fascinating, comprehensive, compelling, inspiring. * Dr Christopher Bailey, Arts and Health Lead at the World Health Organization *A visionary exploration of the health impacts of artistic engagement. Weaving together science and real-world case studies, Daisy reminds us of the human need for creative expression. Reading this compelling work, don’t be surprised if you find yourself dusting off your old guitar, joining a local theatre group, or ordering a set of watercolours (and thanking Art Cure for the motivation!). * Renée Fleming, Soprano and WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts & Health *Art Cure is forceful and eye-opening. Both elevating and practical, it opens new vistas on fantastic scientific discoveries regarding how art affects our bodies, our minds, and even our lifespan. * Nicholas A. Christakis, author of Blueprint: The Evolutionary Origins of a Good Society *Important and timely. * Susan Magsamen, co-author of Your Brain on Art *

Daisy Fancourt is Professor of Psychobiology and Epidemiology at University College London where she heads the Social Biobehavioural Research Group, and Director of the World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre on Arts and Health. She has published 300 scientific papers, won over two dozen academic prizes and is listed as one of the most highly cited scientists in the world. Daisy is also a multi-award-winning science communicator and has been named a World Economic Forum Global Shaper and BBC New Generation Thinker.

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