5 surprising ways art and culture can improve your wellbeing

Outdoor art has a unique ability to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. In fact, more than a third of people said outdoor art or sculpture would make them walk around areas they might otherwise miss.

Whether it’s a striking sculpture emerging from a landscape or an unexpected artwork hidden around a corner, art can encourage people to look beyond the obvious and discover places they may never have visited otherwise.

In Wakefield, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is perhaps the ultimate example of this. Set within 500 acres of rolling Yorkshire countryside, the attraction invites visitors to wander through woods, lakes and open spaces while discovering internationally renowned sculptures along the way. Across the district, public artworks and sculptural landmarks also encourage visitors to see towns, villages and city spaces from a fresh perspective.

Image ©  Damien Hirst, The Virgin Mother, 2005 at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Courtesy of Science Ltd. Photography credit: Paolina Hurry

Art doesn’t just enhance a place visually; it can also help tell its story.

More than a quarter of people surveyed said outdoor art and sculpture would make them want to learn more about a destination and its history.

Many artworks are inspired by local people, industries, landscapes and heritage, offering insight into the stories that have shaped a place. They create opportunities to connect with destinations in a way that’s both engaging and memorable.

Wakefield’s cultural offer is deeply connected to its heritage. Visitors can explore the work and legacy of Barbara Hepworth at The Hepworth Wakefield, where the sweeping curves and organic forms of her sculptures were inspired by the natural world and Yorkshire landscapes around her. The flowing contours that characterise Hepworth’s work encourage reflection, inviting visitors to slow down and engage with art in a way that feels calming and contemplative.

In the heart of the city centre, local artist Jason Wilsher-Mills’ striking sculpture Amazonian Caiman God (part of the Wakefield Sculpture Trail) tells the deeply personal story of his parents’ courtship, weaved around the story of Charles Waterton, and the world’s first nature reserve.

Outside the city, the National Coal Mining Museum tells the story of an industry that once powered the nation – through interactive exhibits and historic tours, as you would expect, but more recently this important facet of Wakefield’s identity is communicated through a fascinating programme of changing art exhibitions and installations, both indoors and across its extensive outdoor spaces.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments to pause can be surprisingly difficult.

Yet almost a quarter of people said the last time they encountered art or sculpture outdoors, it made them slow down and notice their surroundings.

Unlike many modern distractions, sculpture rewards taking your time. It encourages observation, reflection and curiosity. Visitors often find themselves noticing details they might otherwise overlook, from changing light and seasonal colours to the wider landscape around an artwork.

The Hepworth Wakefield Garden is a prime example. An oasis of calm amid the hustle and bustle of the city, this space connects distinctive, seasonal planting with sculpture, creating a landscape that changes throughout the year. Artworks emerge from amongst grasses, flowers and foliage, encouraging visitors to wander slowly through the garden and discover pieces that feel in harmony with their natural surroundings.

Art doesn’t have to be understood in order to have an impact. Sometimes simply experiencing it is enough. Time and again, the research found that outdoor art improved mood and helped people relax.

Whether it’s a colourful exhibition, a thought-provoking mural or a peaceful stroll through an outdoor gallery, cultural experiences can provide a welcome break from daily routines. They encourage people to slow down, engage their imagination and spend quality time in uplifting surroundings.

Wakefield offers ample opportunities for this kind of experience. Visitors can combine sculpture trails with countryside walks, spend time exploring exhibitions at The Hepworth Wakefield, or discover creative events and performances taking place throughout the year.

The sense of relaxation doesn’t have to end when the galleries close. Across the district, visitors can extend their wellbeing-focused escape with a stay in accommodation surrounded by nature and tranquillity. From the lakeside setting of Waterton Park Hotel and stunning view across the Went Valley at Wentbridge House Hotel to the gentle pace of a stay aboard Lazy Days Narrowboat or the unique countryside retreat of Flockton Water Tower, Wakefield offers plenty of places to slow down, switch off and savour a quieter way of life.

Image © Waterton Park Hotel, Ben Cumming

With many of us spending much of our day in front of phones, laptops and tablets, finding ways to disconnect has become increasingly important.

Encouragingly, almost three quarters of people agreed that cultural activities help them take a break from screens, while the majority of those surveyed said cultural experiences can help them mentally reset.

As the UK’s Capital of Sculpture, Wakefield is one of the best places in the country to discover how culture can support wellbeing. From world-famous sculpture in award-winning galleries to museums, heritage attractions and cultural events, there’s inspiration at every turn.

Whether you’re looking to slow down, reconnect with your surroundings, learn something new or simply enjoy a screen-free day out, Wakefield’s cultural experiences offer plenty of ways to breathe deep, wander far and come away feeling refreshed, inspired and recharged.

Explore our art and culture attractions, discover what’s on, and start planning your visit today.

Image: Jaume Plensa Wilsis 2016 © the artist, Photo © Yorkshire Sculpture Park