Creative Health Series (exhibition)

About the exhibition 

The Creative Health Series was a year-long programme, which included six workshops and concludes with this exhibition. Led by artists from a range of creative backgrounds, the series explored how arts and creative practices can support health and well-being. 

Guided by three core themes, ‘Flow Theory’, ‘Community’, and ‘Sustainability’, participants engaged in hands-on activities such as clay, drawing, textiles, and working with nature, across indoor and outdoor settings.  

• Flow Theory: Based on the work of psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, this theme explored the “flow state,” where deep focus and enjoyment create a perfect balance for mental wellbeing. 
• Community: This theme highlighted how creative activities can strengthen social bonds, reduce isolation, and foster a sense of belonging. 
• Sustainability: The final theme examined the benefits of engaging with nature for mental and physical health. 

Designed for PhD students and university staff of all creative abilities, the series invited reflection on how creativity can positively impact both mind and body. The series was curated by Gussi Philippou in collaboration with LU Arts. 

Work produced during the workshops and photography will be on display alongside work by the artists who were involved in the series. 

Workshop opportunity

The sixth and final workshop of the series will take place as part of this exhibition, when Amanda Bywater will lead a botanical monoprinting workshop on Tuesday 16 September from 5-7pm.

Find out more about Impressions of Nature (botanical monoprinting) workshop

About the curator 

Gussi Philippou is an interdisciplinary researcher and designer specialising in creative health exploring the intersection between creative arts and health science, and the way this can be used to enhance physical and mental wellbeing. 

She is currently completing a PhD evaluating the effectiveness of community-based textile workshops as a health intervention for older adults living with dementia, investigating how hands-on creative activities can support cognitive, emotional, and behavioural health of participants. 

Accessibility 

There is step-free access into the gallery via a ramp and side door, which the exhibition invigilator can open for you. If you require the invigilator’s assistance, then please alert them on arrival by calling to them or waving at them – the entrance to the gallery is fully glazed and the main entrance door should be open to make this possible.  

For more information about the venue, including photographs, view the access guide for Martin Hall on AccessAble.  

If you have any specific access requirements, then please contact LUArts@lboro.ac.uk in advance of your visit and we will do our best to accommodate them. 

Facilities 

There are toilets located on the ground floor of Martin Hall including an accessible toilet. There is step-free access into this building. 

Martin Hall Cafe serves light refreshments and is open from 8.30am to 5pm Mon-Fri. It is located behind the gallery, accessed through the main entrance to Martin Hall. 

Parking 

Please note that visitors are required to register their vehicle and pay to park on campus. There are various ways in which you can register and pay (both in advance and on arrival). 

More information on visitor parking