Creative Health Series
A new programme of workshops and events for postgraduate students and staff.
Join us for a year-long journey of six workshops, and an exhibition, led by artists from varying creative backgrounds.
Through three core themes, we’ll explore how creative practices can boost health and wellbeing:
- Flow Theory – will focus on flow state principles coined by psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, which involves being immersed in an activity to promote the perfect balance of enjoyment focus.
- Community – will explore how art sessions can enhance social connection, reduce loneliness and isolation, increasing health benefits.
- Sustainability – will observe the benefits of engaging with nature for mental wellbeing and physical health.
Each workshop invites you to engage with a different hands-on activity, including clay, drawing, working with nature, textiles, working in both indoor and outdoor settings. Designed for postgraduate students (PGT and doctoral researchers) and university staff of all creative abilities, these sessions will explore the impact creative health can have.
The Creative Health Series is curated by Gussi Philippou.
Gussi Philippou
Gussi is an interdisciplinary researcher and designer, who focuses on creative health, exploring the ways arts, culture, and creativity can enhance physical and mental health. She is currently completing a PhD that evaluates the effectiveness of community-based textile workshops as a health intervention for older adults with dementia, exploring how hands-on sessions can support cognitive, behavioural and emotional health.
With a background in textile design, specialising in screen print and embroidery; She initially worked in the fashion industry before focusing on designing and delivering creative learning activities. She now works as an artist researcher, in parallel to her PhD. Designing and facilitating events with charities, community organisations, art studios, and further education institutions, to facilitate creative, community-based workshops which explore the impact of creative health on individuals and communities.
