Psychology. Why does observing works of art help fight depression?

Looking at a painting by Van Gogh, Monet or Picasso would not just be a simple aesthetic pleasure, but could become a real therapeutic tool.

Several studies have already suggested that contemplating works of art can influence mood or stress, but these have been limited, particularly in terms of participants.

An international team has examined decades of research, providing for the first time a clear and comprehensive overview of the effects of art viewing on well-being. Thirty-eight studies were analyzed. And the results are clear: art can improve eudaimonic well-being—well-being associated with personal growth, a sense of purpose, and a meaningful life.

The positive effect persists

What's surprising is the extent of these benefits. Whether it's figurative or abstract paintings, photographs, or even sculptures, the positive effect persists. Even more remarkable, these benefits are evident in art galleries, clinics, hospitals, and even virtual reality.

“ By rethinking art as an accessible, low-cost wellness resource, this research opens up exciting possibilities for integrating art into everyday environments and public health strategies ,” the authors say.

It's worth remembering that since 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the use of creative approaches as a complement to routine clinical care. Indeed, the benefits of artistic creation are well documented.

But this new work highlights the previously underestimated impact of simply contemplating works of art.

A visit to the museum on prescription?

In Caen (Calvados), this notion of art therapy is being taken very seriously. Two Inserm laboratories and the city's University have launched a clinical study within the Museum of Fine Arts. Two hundred volunteers are currently participating in the experiment, which involves wandering the museum's corridors and observing the works.

Each participant is equipped with a wristband that records their heart rate and sweating, and specific glasses that record specific points of the artworks they observe. Finally, a headset that measures blood flow in the frontal cortex, the area of ​​the brain that best translates emotion management.

The goal: to see if this walk can be beneficial for people suffering from anxiety or neurological disorders. As you can see, the next time you pass by a painting, take the time to stop. This moment of contemplation could be more beneficial for your health than you think.