Caring is an Art, and Art is Caring

Caring whether it be in health or social care settings—requires empathy, patience, and creativity, much like an artist’s process. While structured art therapy sessions offer focused benefits, purposefully designed programs allow individuals to embody the deeper, long-term value of artistic engagement. For the purpose of this article I have sought insights from world-renowned transplant surgeon and artist professor Nadey Hakim, mosaic artist Prerana Phadnis , and artist painter Mark Noble . Their views align perfectly with Bourne Hill Care 's experience of guiding our clients to creativity; They are evidence that art can foster well-being, enhance communication, and support therapeutic care for both creators and recipients.

What makes an Artist’s Approach to Care and Connection so successful and creative?

Prerana Phadnis – Mindfulness and Mosaic as a Path to Self-Expression

Mosaic artist Prerana Phadnis reflects the name of her organisation - Beyond Mosaic - in her work. She instantly became our clients' choice to guide them through the Christmas program. Alongside a dedicated team from Bourne Hill Care, Prerana provides clients with a unique approach to self-expression. Rather than directing clients to specific colours or forms, Prerana and the team gently prompt them, allowing each person to explore the sessions in their own way. This nurturing environment encourages mindfulness, as clients connect with textures, colours, and shapes without rigid expectations. Gradually, confidence builds as they process emotions through tactile experience, choice of colours, allowing creativity to emerge naturally.

Prerana explains, “Some may respond to touch and smell, some to colour and others to texture or even the sound of a calm voice. Recognising these nuances helps an artist to adapt their approach.” Her approach highlights the therapeutic benefits of art, helping clients feel empowered and at ease in their creations. When the team at Bourne Hill Care supports clients through these programs, it deepens their communication and strengthens relationships, allowing for meaningful interactions and insights into each client’s world.

Prerana works closely with a charitable organisation called The National Brain Appeal .

In the world of health and social care, this connection brings powerful benefits, with a potential to redefine the community spirit, whilst promoting the well-being of all its members. See the article below which includes invaluable insights of professor Nadey Hakim, Mark Noble, Prerana Phadnis, and the collaboration of the fantastic clients and team at Bourne Hill Care.

The summary points are as follows:

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🎨Creative Care in Action
Art-based programs - like the ones run by Bourne Hill Care - bring joy, enhance communication, and nurture “happy hearts for happy lives” with a commitment to body-mind wellness.

🎨A Therapeutic Voice Through Art
For those facing stress, impairment, disability, communication can be challenging. Art offers a safe, creative space where one can find comfort and authentic self-expression, with the journey to creativity being a therapeutic tool for healing through feeling understood and empowered.

🎨Empathy Through Artistic Self-Care
We encourage healthcare professionals and care givers in general to explore their own creativity, supporting their well-being. This deeper empathy fosters a profound connection with patients and clients, helping caregivers view each individual as a whole person beyond their condition.
🎨The Future: Redefining Community Spirit
Imagine care clients showcasing their artwork alongside professional artists, celebrating inclusivity and redefining community care. Such programs could lead the way in offering connection, respect, and a new vision for supportive community bonds.

Please get in touch if you share my views, know someone who can benefit from the Art-Care bonding, and/or wish to discuss further.

‍How does Art impact Emotional Release and Connection for Mental wellness?

Mark Noble – Landscapes and Abstract Art as a comfortable dive to Emotional Depth

Mark Noble, an artist painter based in Sommerset, uses landscapes and abstract art to express and explore complex emotions. Known for his bold use of colour and evocative compositions, Mark describes some of his work as reflecting “a beauty that is very sore'' that emerges from tones of colours guided from capturing negative emotions. He believes that creating art can be essential for those experiencing depression, providing an outlet when words fall short.

Mark sits on the autism spectrum and talks openly about the positive impact of art on the challenges he faces as a neurodivergent. By sharing his journey, he encourages others to find personal peace through creativity, using art as a cathartic space to connect with emotions. This openness fosters not only personal healing but also a connection with viewers, reinforcing art as a bridge of shared understanding.

The budding artists at Bourne Hill Care cannot wait to have him cast his expert eyes on their art work!

Mark is the appointed ambassador to the charity organisation Outside In and the online art platform Creative Portal.

Art’s Role in Self-Care and Excellence in Patient Care

Professor N. Hakim – Bridging Art, Self-Care, and World-Class Patient Care

World-renowned transplant surgeon Professor Hakim masterfully balances the intensity of his demanding medical practice with the artistry of sculpture and the soulful melodies of clarinet. These creative pursuits provide him with essential recuperation time after the rigors of surgery, allowing him to unwind and recharge. Engaging in sculpture not only offers a meditative escape but also reinforces the mindfulness and precision he applies to his patient care. “Looking at the sculpture I’m working on is incredibly rewarding,” he reflects. “It brings me joy and, more importantly, a sense of peace.” This artistic outlet empowers him to approach each patient with renewed clarity and focus, illustrating how engagement in the arts can profoundly benefit caregivers.

Professor Hakim’s relationship with his art transcends personal enrichment; he generously donates his sculptures for fundraising initiatives, seamlessly blending his passion for creation with his dedication to community support. His experience exemplifies how art serves as both a vital form of self-care and a means to give back, enriching the quality of care he provides while fostering a sense of balance and fulfilment in his life.

The Future of Art and Care: Redefining the Community Spirit

The benefits of art in care provision extend beyond individual healing; they contribute to stronger, more connected communities. Artists like Prerana and Mark are paving the way for guided creativity in care, creating safe spaces for self-expression and emotional release.

Encouraging healthcare professionals to engage in artistic pursuits could further transform care environments. Art can provide healthcare professionals with much-needed self-care and serve as a seamless way to connect with patients and clients. Professionals who embrace art in their personal lives often bring fresh empathy and communication skills to their work, fostering deeper, more intuitive connections with those they care for.

Looking to the future, I wish for programs where our clients are empowered to exhibit their creations alongside professional artists. This model would not only redefine community spirit, inviting inclusivity and respect, but also offer a preventative approach to the well-being of all.