Art Cure
By Daisy Fancourt
Recommended by Kat
“Shortlisted for the Women's Prize in Non-fiction 2026, Daisy Fancourt's The Art Cure takes a deep dive into the many facets of physical, lifespan, mental and neurological health that are improved by engaging in the arts. Throughout the book she moves seamlessly between her own career research and other studies to argue for the benefits of engagement with activities such as reading, writing, crafts, drawing, painting, music and dance. Fancourt's delivery is easy to follow, relatable, and inspiring. A great read for a wide audience.” -Kat
Many of us consider making and consuming art to be a hobby, or even a luxury. But what if arts engagement – from classical music to salsa, poetry to pop concerts, galleries to graffiti – was in fact one of our most powerful tools for unlocking health and happiness?
In Art Cure, world-leading expert and award-winning scientist Professor Daisy Fancourt reveals the life-changing power of the arts, including how:
Songs support the architectural development of children’s brains.
Creative hobbies help our brains to stay resilient against dementia.
Visual art and music act just like drugs to reduce depression, stress, and pain.
Dance build new neural pathways for people with brain injuries.
Going to live music events, museums, exhibitions, and the theatre decreases our risk of future loneliness and frailty.
Fancourt draws on ground-breaking research in neuroscience, psychology, immunology, physiology, behavioural science and epidemiology, as well as inspiring true stories of people who have experienced radical changes in their health, to empower readers to improve their own health through the arts.
Cornerstone Press, 2026
