Black background with a side view of a head. The face is photographic of a young woman, the head is a line drawing layered over the photo and depicts the outline of the head including the neck and depicting the brain and neuron pathways. At the lower bottom of the image we can see dream-like waves of colour.

Art makes people happy!

Inspiring learning, expression, connection & wellbeing — through creativity.

At Year of Arts (YofA), we believe creativity belongs to everyone — no matter your age, background, ability, or experience. Whether you're 2 or 102, in a classroom, care home, office, or kitchen, the act of making art opens doors to self-discovery, confidence, connection, and joy.

And science agrees.

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Why Art Matters

Creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking are among the top skills needed for the future of work. Creating art actively exercises these muscles: planning, adjusting, imagining alternatives, and working with constraints — all vital skills in a world that rewards innovation.*

Even brief artistic activity has been shown to boost divergent thinking, helping people generate new ideas and see possibilities beyond the obvious.

* According to the World Economic Forum.

Anything Else? Yes!

It Builds Brain & Heart

Engaging in the arts improves both cognitive function and emotional intelligence. Studies show that creative activity strengthens the brain’s default mode network — the part linked to introspection, memory, and future planning. Art also supports emotional development, helping people better understand, regulate, and express their feelings.

It Gives Us a Voice

For many — including those with communication challenges, trauma, anxiety, or neurodiversity — art becomes a non-verbal language. Through colour, texture, movement, and image, people can share what they’re thinking and feeling — often with more clarity than speech allows.

It Teaches Empathy & Cultural Awareness

Art encourages us to slow down and look more deeply. When we experience or create art inspired by different cultures, time periods, or perspectives, we build empathy, tolerance, and a greater understanding of others — qualities essential for social cohesion and global citizenship.

What the Research Says

A major study by the American Journal of Public Health found that engagement with visual art is strongly linked to reduced anxiety, improved mood, and increased resilience.
Harvard Medical School reports that even casual art-making lowers cortisol levels (a key stress hormone) after just 45 minutes.
Research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that participation in visual arts enhances brain connectivity, boosts executive functioning, and supports lifelong learning.
The Arts Council of Ireland recognises that regular engagement with the arts leads to higher levels of life satisfaction and community involvement.

Simply put: Creativity isn't a luxury — it's a foundation for health, happiness, and success.

Empower
Growth

YofA is for everyone who wants to achieve growth, success & happiness!

Educators & Schools – Enrich your curriculum with hands-on arts for holistic learning touching on geography, history, collaboration, empathy, problem solving skills & more;
Families – Explore art together for shared interest, bonding, rewinding and mutual understanding;
Neurodiverse Individuals – Use creativity to communicate, regulate, and connect;
People with Disabilities – Inclusive sessions designed for all abilities;
Early Years – Build imagination, fine motor skills, and focus;
Teenagers – Discover confidence and voice through creative expression;
Adults – De-stress, reconnect, and develop new ways of thinking;
Corporate Teams – Encourage innovation, empathy, and wellbeing;
Elderly Participants – Support memory, dignity, and social engagement.

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Inclusion in Action

At YofA, inclusion isn’t a feature — it’s a philosophy.
We work with participants of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds. Our sessions are adaptable to meet diverse needs, from quiet spaces and visual supports to sensory tools and seated options.

We’ve seen the impact first hand — and so have our partners.

Want to Get Involved?

Whether you’re a school, organisation, parent, carer, community group, or individual — YofA welcomes you.

We’d love to chat and help you (re)discover your creative spark.