Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health

Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health

Daisy Fancourt

#1761 of 3,809 books · #187 in Science & Technology

Shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Non-Fiction (2026).

Many of us consider making and consuming art to be a hobby, or even a luxury. But what if arts engagement - from classical music to salsa, poetry to pop concerts, galleries to graffiti - was in fact one of our most powerful tools for unlocking health and happiness? What if art could help you live longer - and even save your life? In Art Cure, Professor Daisy Fancourt reveals the life-changing power of the arts: Songs support the architectural development of children's brains. Creative hobbies help our brains to stay resilient against dementia. Visual art and music act just like drugs to reduce depression, stress, and pain. Dance build new neural pathways for people with brain injuries. Going to live music events, museums, exhibitions, and the theatre decreases our risk of future loneliness and frailty. Engaging in the arts improves the functioning of every major organ system in the body. Art helps us not only to survive, but to thrive and flourish. Informed by the results of decades of scientific studies, Art Cure explains why the arts - alongside diet, sleep, exercise and nature - are the forgotten fifth pillar of health, and gives you the tools to write your own 'arts prescription'.