Art as an Agent of Wellbeing and Social -Participation for Mental Health: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

Art provides a space for expression and personal growth, promoting well-being and reducing stigma, particularly for individuals with mental illness. Museums have shifted to create inclusive experiences for marginalized groups. This study aimed to explore the experiences of people with mental illness who participated in an Art and Museum Intervention program, examining the meanings they attributed to social participation and meaningful occupations through art. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 18 participants from a Psychosocial and Occupational Rehabilitation Center in A Coruña, Spain, using purposeful sampling. Data were gathered through focus groups, in-depth interviews, and participant observation, followed by thematic analysis. Participants actively engaged in the study, sharing their experiences of art as a means of social integration. The collaboration between the museum and the rehabilitation center ensured a community-based approach. Two main themes emerged: (1) Art as an agent of socialization, including teamwork, building support networks, community integration, and overcoming stigma; and (2) Well-being and empowerment through meaningful occupation, with subthemes of positive emotions, empowerment, and art as a meaningful activity. The study highlights how museum-led art interventions enhance well-being and social participation, positioning art as a valuable tool in mental health recovery and community inclusion.