Artist Wellbeing Survey
Reflective Practice in Arts & Health
This article presents key research findings from a 2026 study conducted in partnership with Creative Waterford on artist’s wellbeing within the Irish arts in health and socially engaged art sectors. Based on a multi-modal study consisting of an online survey and live creative consultations, the text explores the impact of professional isolation, the issues surrounding burnout, and the critical structural need for dedicated reflective practice models to sustain creative health practitioners.
Background
What does it take to sustain the work that artists engage in to hold the space for others? In early 2026, I approached Creative Waterford to lead a research study into the wellbeing and reflective practice of artists working across the arts-and-health and socially engaged sectors. This survey was born out of a deep professional curiosity of what I am witnessing in my work with creative health professionals. While holding and crafting creative environments, we see participants arrive in a state of hesitation, feeling shrunk or powerless, and watch them expand out into a state of pride and play. I found myself wondering about the long-term sustainability of the practice of artists facilitating these shifts, in work that can be equally nourishing and draining. I wanted to move beyond anecdotal conversations and build a clearer, data-driven picture of how we can support the practitioners who act as catalysts for these vital transformative thresholds in our communities.
“The look on their faces when they create a piece of art they are proud of gives them the momentum to step outside their comfort zone to play, explore and experiment with materials.”
Research into Artist Wellbeing
Our research confirmed that the work artist’s engage in with their communities is anchored in an extraordinary level of commitment. We found that 82.8% of practitioners are driven by deep personal values and lived experience, with many describing their work as a vital contribution to the health, wellbeing and heartbeat of the community. Yet, it is precisely this high level of motivation that makes my curiosity both personal and collective; when we are this dedicated, we are also at our most vulnerable to burnout. I wanted to explore how we can protect what sometimes can be seen as vocation so it doesn’t become a sacrifice.
“I am very passionate about my work… It is a huge part of my identity and I feel very privileged to do it.”
To begin to understand the answer, we designed a sample multi-layered study that combined an online survey with “live and in-person” creative consultations. We were met with a response from a true cross-section of our community—visual artists, musicians, writers, and performers working in hospitals, schools, and community centres. Most respondents (60%) had been working in practice for 5 years and over and the majority identified as self-employed (68%).
“Film can be a powerful medium for connection, empowerment, and mental wellbeing”
Need for Reflective Practice
By using creative making as part of the consultation itself, we didn’t just ask artists about their needs; we invited them to experience the very type of reflective space that is currently so scarce in their professional lives. What emerged from this blend of data and dialogue was the realisation that while we are artists can often be experts at facilitating agency in others, there is a quiet, often overlooked gap in our own professional infrastructure.
“My work in arts and health is deeply fulfilling as it allows me to connect with diverse communities and foster healing and hope through creativity.”
Professional Isolation
The research highlights a highly skilled workforce that often operates in a “vacuum.” A staggering 90% of practitioners shared that they feel they are currently navigating their work with only partial support.
“Sometimes feel as if I’m working in a vacuum… I’m making the changes to connect with a creative community.”
In my own journey, I’ve found that while our personal networks are wonderful, almost 60% of us are relying on friends and family to process the complexities of our professional lives. We are craving a space where we can speak ‘artist-to-artist’ about the skills and tools we’ve developed to be adaptable and meaningful and share the scenarios we find ourselves in whilst holding space for others.
“Meaningful connection with other creatives… is invaluable. Being in dialogue with fellow practitioners often opens unexpected creative pathways and strengthens the quality and ambition of future projects.”
The Helper’s Paradox and the Burnout Gap
Because our work can be so deeply tied to our identity, it can be much harder to set boundaries. The care that drives our practice, and creates such meaningful and successful work, can be the same aspect that pushes us to continue to work unsupported or isolated. The data confirms what might be called the ‘Helper’s Paradox’:
- 44.8% of the Survey participants stated that they are struggling with the emotional labour of holding space.
- 41.4% are managing burnout and fatigue.
- Nearly 70% never or rarely budget for their own reflective practice.
“I consistently receive strong feedback about the changes these initiatives are creating… However, this sense of recognition is not always reflected when it comes to financial support for new programmes.”
There is a gentle but urgent need to change this narrative, moving from viewing self-care as an ‘extra’ to seeing it as a fundamental requirement for our sustainability.
“The trust and appreciation expressed verbally are not matched by structural or financial backing… Organisations laugh at [budgeting for self-care].”
Yet, there was also the acknowledgement that value may be expressed in pays other that payment, for example, through ongoing work:
” The value is not always monetary, and it’s primarily anchored in respect, continuity and engagement of participants. The value comes from this collaboration.”
Reclaiming the ‘Creative Spark’
“I feel isolated in my practice. I feel that my work is getting overlooked.”
During our in-person consultations, a creative consultation took place at Waterford Gallery of Art, where artists were given the opportunity to engage in the creative process as part of their reflection on their wellbeing and reflective practice needs. I watched the room transform when artists engaged in their own “creative reflection”—making work that was outside their usual project outcome and delivery requirements. Reflective opportunities opened up greater possibilities in engaging in creativity that was curious and playful. One participant’s reaction stayed with me:
“I was surprised how close I was to my practice and how contended and giddy… when I was when engaged in the creative reflection.”
Another stated
“Making shows me I’m alive. I’m trying to juggle everything… I’m not remembering myself”
The research showed the importance of what could be called the “Third Space”. A space where artists can reconnect with their creative selves, replenish and restore their creative joy through engagement with the very force that drives their practice. I believe is so vital—a professional sanctuary where the artist’s identity isn’t subsumed by the role of “facilitator” or “teacher.”
“We need to feel valued and respected as professionals… not just as a ‘nice to have’ add-on.”
The Path Forward for Artist’s Wellbeing
Recognising these findings and needs, we are currently in the process of designing a structured pilot programme with Creative Waterford to provide this “Third Space.” This is an invitation to step away from project delivery and focus on two core pillars:
- Peer-Based Reflection: Moving from isolation toward a “community of practice” where participants can share and process the work we are engaged in.
- Creative Sanctuary: Reconnecting with their own “creative spark” simply to remember who they are and what nourishes their practice.
The findings of this research suggest that acknowledging the artist’s wellbeing is not just a gesture of support, it is the very foundation of a thriving, ethical creative sector. By exploring ways to facilitate this “time out” and providing practitioners with the professional safety nets they have asked for, we can move toward a more sustainable cultural ecosystem.
This survey has offered us a clear lens into the professional lives of those holding our creative community spaces. As we continue to build the infrastructure that holds the people who hold the community, we ensure that the healing, hope, and agency we foster in others remains a sustainable reality for the artists who make it all possible.
If you would like to discuss how creative self-care and reflective practice can support the artists on your programme, contact me directly or book a call