In an unprecedented move, the World Health Organization (WHO), traditionally at the forefront of addressing epidemics and chronic diseases, took a step into a new realm – the world of arts. A year ago, the WHO initiated the Jameel Arts and Health Lab, a groundbreaking project dedicated to exploring the positive impact of arts on health and well-being, in collaboration with Community Jameel, New York University (NYU), and the art non-profit CultuRunners. This initiative signals a paradigm shift, advocating for the integration of cultural activities into healthcare practices.
Christopher Bailey, the WHO’s arts and health lead in New York, emphasizes the complementary nature of arts to medical approaches, likening it to recommending good behavior or exercise. Recognizing the intrinsic connection between the arts and human experience, the WHO seeks to position cultural activities as a fundamental aspect of holistic health.
The Jameel Arts and Health Lab: A Catalyst for Change
Situated at the intersection of international philanthropy, academia, and artistic expression, the Jameel Arts and Health Lab aims to catalyze arts and health programs globally. By fostering scientific research in this domain, the lab endeavors to reshape policy perspectives within the health sector, positioning culture as a catalyst for good health alongside established practices like physical exercise and balanced nutrition.
Renewed Focus Amidst a Global Crisis
While the link between the arts and well-being has been explored for decades, the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health has propelled this connection into the spotlight. The pandemic underscored the importance of holistic well-being, prompting lawmakers and public health officials to reevaluate the role of cultural activities in maintaining good health.
Global Collaboration: NYU and WHO/Europe as Pillars
With bases in NYU and the WHO’s Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe) in Copenhagen, the Jameel Arts and Health Lab stands as the first major arts and health initiative in the history of the United Nations agency. Building on a comprehensive 2019 WHO report highlighting the role of culture in preventing illness, both mental and physical, the lab represents a collaborative effort to redefine health beyond the mere absence of disease.
Holistic Health: A Transformative Approach
The 2019 WHO report advocates for a “holistic definition of health,” challenging the conventional understanding of health as the absence of disease. Instead, it propounds a vision of health that encompasses general well-being. This holistic approach acknowledges the profound impact of cultural engagement on mental and physical health, emphasizing the need to integrate arts into healthcare strategies.
Looking Ahead: Cultivating a Healthier Future
As the Jameel Arts and Health Lab pioneers the exploration of the intersection between arts and health, its impact is poised to resonate globally. With the support of international institutions and the WHO’s influential backing, the initiative seeks to usher in a new era where cultural activities are embraced as integral components of health and wellness. The transformative power of art is not merely a source of aesthetic pleasure; it emerges as a cornerstone in the pursuit of a healthier and more holistic future for individuals and communities worldwide.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.