* This content mentions depression, anxiety, and trauma, which some people may find triggering.
“Art has the power to heal and transform us, just as wellness has the strength to nourish and strengthen us.” - Lai Yan, Founder of Onecare.
Health and wellness no longer refer to being in a state that is absent of physical illness but has taken the new meaning of being physically, mentally, and emotionally sound. A quick sweep of the internet will reveal that it is saturated with tips and tricks on how to build a healthy diet, how to get enough exercise in a week, how to take mindful rest, and more - all in the pursuit of wellness.
However, there is one topic that you may find to be slightly less known than the others, but rapidly increasing in favor - that is, the connection between art and wellness. In recent years, there has been a growing body of research that suggests art can improve health in a variety of colorful ways. This is especially true for individuals who have struggled with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
One artist who has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety is Tim Burton. Burton materialized his struggles in his creations, ultimately making such an impact that it earned him the term “Burtonesque”, which is commonly used to describe artwork that is similar to his world-renowned imaginative and visually stunning film-making style. In particular, he is known for his unique blend of horror and quirkiness in his character design and storytelling, often featuring themes of loneliness and alienation. Despite these darker themes, his work is beloved by many and has inspired countless artists around the world.
