Art, meditation and cognitive science: a framework for museum-based community meditation programme during the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore.
Arts & health October 1, 2024 Russell Weili Chan, Sharon Peiling Chen, Dee Yu Teng Chia
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Singapore Art Museum rapidly launched an online programme called Unwind with SAM, which paired engagement with contemporary art with meditation to improve mental health and maintain public engagement during lockdowns. The programme focused on the positive effect of arts on mental health combined with the cognitive benefits of meditation through 'slow-looking' at artworks. This practice-based report reflects on the processes and explores the potential between art, contemplation, and cognitive sciences. It outlines the current landscape of art and wellness approaches in museums, explains the philosophical framework guiding the programme, and provides critical reflection and recommendations for practitioners, managers, and scientists.