Visitors can discover how creativity can boost health and wellbeing at the Creative Health exhibition at the Museum of Croydon. Open now until 22 August, it brings creative health to life through powerful local stories, artwork, film, photography and interactive activities.

Croydon Council and its community partners have been running events in drama, creative writing, gardening and more. Visitors can see the work of residents and learn how the activities helped to build their confidence, improve their wellbeing and provide an opportunity to connect with others.

Abdigebar Mohamed Ali is part of the New Addington creative writing group and was delighted to have his work published in a collection with his classmates. He said: “I wanted to improve my wellbeing, socialise with others and make new friends. I wanted to feel part of the community. Before, I was isolated which would make me feel depressed, but this changed my mindset.”

“The exhibition is brilliant and I feel really excited to have my poem published,” he added.

Christina Waters, who also joined the creative writing group, said: “I do a lot of creative writing, and somebody recommended this to me because I don’t often get out and see people. You get to talk to people about lots of different things and there’s lots of activities you can do, not just writing. You feel supported.”

The interactive exhibition has a wide range of art on display – from poetry to ceramics, paintings to puppets. It also features artwork from the Dementia, Art and Joy (DAJ) project, a series of fortnightly sessions at the Museum of Croydon for people living with dementia and their carers.

On Saturday, 8 August, residents can try their hand at a range of activities on offer across the borough at the Creative Health Takeover event at the museum. From singing to drama or arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone and all ages are welcome.

Ruth Hutchinson, Director of Public Health, said: “The evidence for the positive impact of creativity on mental health is strong and it’s getting stronger. Scientists are telling us that creativity is a good thing for our heath – it’s good for our mental health, our physical health and our general wellbeing.

“There are lots of examples here where people are getting out of their house, they’re meeting people, they’re doing physical activities and key health messages are being spread. Creativity can also help prevent symptoms from worsening in people living with illnesses, such as dementia.”

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said: “It is so important that we create opportunities for our residents to access support that can improve their health and wellbeing.

“This inspiring and uplifting exhibition showcases the success of these projects and a great reminder of the role that culture plays in healthier communities.”

 

  • The Creative Health exhibition is open Wednesday to Saturday (10am–4.30pm) at the Museum of Croydon in Croydon Clocktower. Find out more about the exhibition on the Museum of Croydon website.
  • Visit the exhibition on Saturday 8 August and take part in the Creative Health Takeover event, where you can try your hand at a range of activities on offer across the borough. From singing to drama or arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone and all ages are welcome.
  • Find out more about how to get involved at Creative Health Croydon – Culture Croydon.