How music, painting, theatre, dance, literature
and architecture heal
Art, medicine and health have many points of contact and
a long tradition. Even in Greek mythology, Apollo was the god
of the arts. Artistic approaches to therapy (including visual
and performing arts, music, dance and literature) have been
used for many centuries and are still offered in some medical
institutions today. Despite this long practical experience,
there is little scientific evidence of its effectiveness.
Basic research provides an important basis for art therapy
with interesting new approaches for investigating possible
mechanisms of action. In addition, the overall social signifi-
cance of art for health is an important topic, especially with
regard to preventive effects for the population.
The book provides a comprehensive overview of how art
can be used as a health-promoting resource and highlights
various research approaches. In addition, a brief review of
the historical development of art in medicine is given. For the
first time, the influence of music, painting, dance, literature
and architecture on people’s state of health and the healing
effect they can have is shown.
Target group: Art therapists, artists, psychotherapists,
child and adolescent psychologists, psychoanalysts and
psychologists, health professionals, music and dance
therapists, art and music educators, community musicians