Visual STIMULATION AND ENVIRONMENT BOTH HAVE A PROFOUND IMPACT ON MENTAL WELL-BEING. COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY LOOKS AT EFFECTS OF COLOUR ON OUR EMOTIONS, CALMING COLOURS SUCH AS GREENS AND BLUES CAN BE USED TO SUBTLY ALTER THE ATMOSPHERE IN A SPACE.

ART 4 HEALING

Studies have evidenced the therapeutic benefits of art based on the experiential way in which we view it. It can hold meaning at both individual and group level and ambiguity and controversy within art will always provoke interesting discussions. Most research considers art in the sense of canvases or framed pictures. It is our belief that transferring this ideology to murals has the potential for a much larger impact. It increases visual stimulation tenfold and will transform a space entirely and envelop the viewer. The scale facilitates viewing for individuals who may have limited visual capacity, they are also safe to touch with no removable parts or glass, less fragile/damageable, easy to personalise and easy to amend/replace at any time.

This process can instil a sense of community within a residential setting and help clients feel pride in their home and a huge sense of achievement.
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Art Therapy originated in America and is now available in the UK. Its development is led by the British Association of Art Therapy (BAAT).
Dementia & Alzheimers
The Museum of Modern Art (New York) has conducted research looking into the effects of art within the Dementia/Alzheimer group. 
They found benefits displayed through
  • Elevated mood
  • Provision of focus for discussion without depending on memory, and at times, stimulating memories.
  • Increased self-esteem and inspiration
  • Mental stimulation, which can aid in slowing these conditions
  • Certain colours were shown to have different impacts on this group of individuals
  • Engaging on a daily basis
Although in these settings, service user involvement may be limited, families might enjoy contributing and reminiscing. Murals can also be useful visual aids and reminders for orientation in this patient group.
Youth/Rehabilitation
For many of us, our goal in life is to become a home owner, perhaps even build our own house, create our 'nest'.  In the case of some individuals who spend a large portion of their adult lives in institutional care, they will never have this opportunity.  
As part of a healing strategy, decorating their home as part of a team can replicate the sensation of control over their environment and living space.  It will give them an insight into the responsibility of making big decisions with a long term or permanent fixture.  It will also become a daily reminder of their achievement and positive contribution, providing topics of conversation with healthcare workers and families, thereby encouraging interaction and improving self-esteem and social skills. ​
Childcare/Pediatrics
In Nurseries and children's hospices the benefits of bright colours and recognisable characters has been widely documented. Large paintings on the wall can bring visual stimulation and breath life into the walls, particularly when the colours remain bright and dont fade.