Sharing knowledge to promote the discussion of mental health through art
Parnter in our network, the Museum of the Mind, and the Van Gogh Museum are entering into a long-term partnership. By combining their knowledge in the field of mental health and art, the museums increase the discussion of this important social theme. In the coming years, the museums will develop a common cultural offer, starting with the teachers’ afternoon Open Spirit in the classroom on January 16, 2023.
Mental health and art
It has been scientifically proven that art has a positive influence on people’s well-being. Both museums are committed to making a positive contribution to the mental health of their visitors. Museum of the Mind may call itself European Museum of the Year in 2022 because of the innovative way in which the museum investigates and translates ‘the artwork between your ears’ to the public. In the spring of 2022, the Van Gogh Museum launched ‘Open up with Vincent’, a program about mental health viewed through the art and life story of Vincent van Gogh. Based on this knowledge, the museums join forces to promote the discussion of mental health through art.
Open Spirit in the classroom
Figures show that young people are more often confronted with stress, anxiety and gloomy feelings. The two museums are therefore organizing the teachers’ day Open Spirit in the classroom together with ‘Listen once’. On January 16, 2023 (Blue Monday), mentors, teachers and care coordinators in secondary education will be inspired to discuss the subject of mental health in class. During this afternoon, attention will also be paid to the healing power of art and themes from Vincent’s eventful life form the starting point for the conversation about mental well-being.