Arts & Health Day Celebrates Creativity, Connection and Community Wellbeing

Community members came together to celebrate National Arts and Health Day with an innovative workshop highlighting the powerful connection between creativity, movement, and wellbeing.

Participants explored a unique blend of therapeutic arts and practical self-defense through mindful breathing, bilateral art exercises, reflective writing and confidence-building self-defense instruction led by Master Seyd Saidi, 8th Dahn Chief Instructor at Kuk Sool Won of Dublin. The therapeutic arts session was facilitated by Dublin Arts Collective Co-Founder Vanessa Thomas, encouraging participants to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and express their experiences through creativity.

Observed annually on July 25, National Arts and Health Day recognizes the growing role of the arts improving health, reducing social isolation, and strengthening communities. Officially this is the third time this day has been celebrated nationally and the inaugural event in Dublin took place at Don Biddle Park. Around the world, healthcare providers are increasingly embracing social prescribing—the practice of connecting people with community-based activities such as arts programs, nature, volunteering, and movement—to support mental, emotional, and social wellbeing alongside traditional healthcare.

"Bringing together therapeutic arts and martial arts created a truly unique experience. It was inspiring to see participants embrace something new and discover how taking time to focus on their health and wellbeing can leave them feeling more balanced, confident, and connected" said Master Saidi.

Community arts programs provide opportunities for people to build meaningful relationships, discover new skills, reduce stress, and develop a greater sense of belonging. These connections are essential ingredients of thriving communities, where creativity fosters resilience, inclusion, and lifelong wellbeing.

"Arts and health are deeply connected," said Vanessa Thomas. "When we combine creative expression with movement and community connection, we create spaces where people can feel seen, supported, and empowered. Investing in the arts is also an investment in healthier, more connected communities."

The DAC looks forward to expanding arts and wellness initiatives that inspire creativity, promote wellbeing, and strengthen community connections for people of all ages.