Why this calendar is special
Rooted in the rhythm of the seasons, Cultivating Creativity Calendar promotes self-discovery, emotional awareness, and skill-building. It also aligns with key curriculum areas including but not limited to Art and specific arts-based subjects, Music, Drama, English, Design and Technology, Health and Care, Psychology and many more, and it supports essential life skills like mindfulness and emotional processing – all core aspects of art therapy.
The Cultivating Creativity Calendar has been created as part of our NHSE commission, which promotes the professions of art, drama, and music therapists. Originally designed by art therapist Jess Baum, this project reflects our commitment to making creativity an accessible tool that promotes wellbeing and the benefits of artmaking to everyone.
Developing through creativity
Creativity takes many forms. We can be creative by making real, tangible artworks or objects, or by generating ideas. We can use our minds and bodies in the creative process, as well materials around us, like found objects, digital media, music and more to bring imagination to life.
Creativity sparks curiosity and wonder, allowing us to explore ideas, relationships, and challenges in new ways. It’s essential for learning, growth, and development – both personally and socially. Being creative supports us to develop:
- Social skills
- Emotional skills
- Observational skills
- Analytic skills
- Critical thinking
- Language skills
- Literacy (including creative and emotional literacy)
- Manual dexterity and sensory-motor skills
Creativity, nature, and wellbeing
Wellbeing is how we feel and function in the world, influenced by physical, emotional, personal, and social factors (Mental Health Foundation). The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines it as “a positive state experienced by individuals and societies… with a sense of meaning and purpose.”
Creativity plays a key role in wellbeing, allowing us to express ourselves and find that sense of purpose.
Being creative supports our wellbeing by helping us to:
- Discover new perspectives
- Find our voice
- Share our experiences
- Play an active role in the world
- Make our marks in our communities
- Build self-confidence
- Accept failure
- Feel connected to others and the world around us
- Feel joyful
Bringing nature into the Cultivating Creativity Calendar also adds to the wellbeing benefits. Nature can be like a supportive friend, helping us express ourselves and understand feelings like change, growth, and loss. Paying attention to the seasons and how nature changes around us can reflect on our own experiences.
Research shows that connecting with nature can boost personal growth and make us feel happier and more balanced (Natural England, 2022).