Art has the power to heal and create a sense of balance, and we try to equip children with the creative skill without realizing that we might need it too. According to research conducted by the University of Gloucestershire last year, data from about 1,300 primary care patients in South West England showed that taking a course of arts-on-prescription provided critical improvement in overall well-being, including in cases with complex care needs. The findings were published in European Journal of Public Health.

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According to The National, organizations such as Soul Art Center in Dubai have been focusing on the emotional benefits of art and made spiritual progress the main focus of their programs. Founder Lama Mardini took interest in psychology and emotional well-being, which motivated her to curate programs to assist people in harnessing inner contentment. Lama favors energy over skill when hiring employees for the art center, she realizes the importance of the kind of energy that people radiate towards students coming in to discover their abilities.

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One of UAE’s oldest art spaces is The JamJar in Alserkal Avenue, which started out as an open space for artists and went on to offer teaching lessons. The space allows students to display their art as show pieces throughout the studio, and offer extensive training in acrylic and oil painting, and illustrations.

Cover image:@thejamjardubai