A bold new creative project designed to bring communities together across the region in a celebration of health, self-expression, and collective imagination has launched in Cumberland with opportunities for artists and people in the community to get involved.
The project, The Art of Wellbeing, is being led by Cumberland Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) and Rosehill.
Developed in collaboration with a local artist, The Art of Wellbeing project aims to engage communities across Cumberland to produce a collaborative artistic piece that fosters awareness and discussion around health determinants and the role of Cumberland Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC). The project will use the power of visual arts to create meaningful expressions of health—both physical and mental—and explore how creativity can serve as a vital tool for individual and collective wellness, as well as health research.
The initiative will culminate in a public exhibition showcasing the community-created artwork, serving as a lasting testament to Cumberland’s shared commitment to wellbeing.
“We’re proud to launch a project that puts people’s voices and experiences at its heart,” said Cllr Emma Williamson, Cumberland Council’s Deputy Leader with responsibility for the Health Determinants Research Collaboration.
“Our HDRC is central to our approach at the council to put research at the heart of our evidence-based decision making, so that we can understand the issues many of our communities face and therefore provide them with the right support.”
“This project is a great way to engage with these communities and create something tangible which embodies the significance of the team’s work.”
Stephen Dunn, Communities & Culture Officer at Cumberland Council, added: “The Art of Wellbeing isn’t just about art—it’s about understanding our health, celebrating our communities, and using creativity as a bridge between research, awareness, and real lives.
“As part of the Arts Culture and Heritage Team for Cumberland Council, I'm absolutely delighted to support this fantastic project
“Not only will it be fantastic for enhancing the arts and the benefits it brings on so many levels, it will really help us creatively connect and enhance Cumberland offering a vast amount of opportunities and positive development. Creativity is a great currency and one we're keen to mine, power and generate with. This feeds this vibrant ambitious appetite”.
Jen Garrick, CEO of Rosehill said, "We're all more aware than ever of the positive effects that being creative can have on our health and wellbeing, but creativity can also be a powerful tool to explore big ideas, express how we feel, and tell our stories. Which is why we are so pleased to be partnering with Cumberland HDRC on "The Art of Wellbeing" - we can't wait to explore different perspectives on creativity and health with the people of Cumberland."
Artists who are interested in this project should go to the Rosehill website, to find out more.