Artist wellbeing: exploring the experiences of dance artists delivering community health and wellbeing initiatives

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research evidence indicates the ability of dance to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing through its unique combination of creative expression, movement and social connections. This article explores the wellbeing of independent dance artists/practitioners delivering initiatives for the UK’s social prescribing scheme. The article examines the experiences, practices and professional development of dance artists/practitioners providing community dance programmes with a particular focus on enhancing participants’ wellbeing. Dance artists/practitioners participated in a UK-wide online survey (n = 30) and a focus group discussion (n = 3) between May to September 2019. Using a qualitative methodology, we examined the dance artists/practitioners’ practice, perspectives and needs. Three themes emerged – barriers to wellbeing, isolation and support networks. Four crucial areas of concern were highlighted. 1) Clearer distinctions between social prescribing, arts in primary/secondary care and participatory, community arts programming. 2) Improved dialogue between dance artists/practitioners, employers/commissioners, communities and training providers. 3) Action to address the lack of affective support and training for dance artists/practitioners working in a health and wellbeing context, and 4) Recognition. The independent dance sector still has work to do in order to provide dance artists/practitioners with access to training, peer support, professional development and wellbeing provision.