Webinar on Culture & Health
The role of creative arts in promoting mental wellness
18 May 2026
On Wednesday 13 May 2026, the International Centre for Black Sea Studies (ICBSS) in cooperation with the Permanent International Secretariat of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC PERMIS), organised successfully a Webinar on Culture and Health with title, “The role of creative arts in promoting mental wellness”.
More than 60 participants joined the online event that provided an exchange platform for health professionals and culture experts, with the aim to increase understanding of how creative arts can support mental health and emotional wellbeing; share evidence-based insights showcasing the positive impact of creative arts on people and communities; raise awareness and initiate an open dialogue on mental health, in order to support inclusivity and mitigate societal stigma and discrimination.
Key takeaways:
- Scientific research for mental health has increased over the past years, underscoring the importance of mental wellbeing as equal to physical health.
- Advanced scientific evidence shows that the arts can have a positive impact on brain functions, related to both neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders.
- Engagement with performative and creative arts should be aimed at all people, regardless of age or medical condition.
- Cultural engagement for health is currently in its early stages, therefore awareness needs to be intensified for more people to endorse it.
- Efforts to support the interaction of culture with mental wellbeing is often supported more by culture practitioners than healthcare professionals.
- Despite increased efforts, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still societal constraints, such as stigma and isolation, associated to mental health challenges.
Read the full Press-release HERE
Watch the Webinar HERE
For more information HERE
