At Frame Today, we believe that art isn’t just something to admire on a gallery wall; it’s something deeply personal that can touch every part of our lives. From paintings and photographs to jerseys, medals, and even sentimental keepsakes, the items we choose to frame often hold stories, memories, and emotions. Increasingly, research shows that surrounding ourselves with meaningful art and objects can play an important role in supporting positive mental health.
The Link Between Art and Mental Health
Art has long been celebrated as a way to express emotions, spark creativity, and foster human connection. But beyond its beauty, science is proving that engaging with art, whether by creating it, viewing it, or living with it, has tangible mental health benefits.
Studies highlight that:
- Art reduces stress and anxiety: Research shows that engaging in art activities can lower cortisol levels and boost positive emotions, even for those with no formal training (University of Calgary).
- Creativity builds resilience: Expressing yourself creatively helps regulate emotions and fosters problem-solving skills (ScienceDirect).
- Art fosters connection: Shared art experiences encourage empathy, conversation, and meaningful social bonds (BMC Public Health).
- Personal art boosts self-esteem: Displaying or creating personal art validates identity and achievement, enhancing self-worth (My Good Brain).
Art in the Broadest Sense
When we talk about “art,” it doesn’t just mean traditional paintings and sculptures. At Frame Today, we embrace the broadest interpretation of art; anything framed that brings meaning, joy, or memory to your life.
Framed art includes:
- Family photographs that remind you of milestones and happy times.
- Children’s drawings that capture creativity and innocence.
- Sporting memorabilia like jerseys or medals that tell the story of teamwork, persistence, and achievement.
- Music posters or band shirts that connect you with powerful memories and passions.
- Personal keepsakes such as handwritten letters, souvenirs, or heirlooms that represent love and continuity.
Each of these items, when framed and displayed, becomes a visual anchor in your home or workspace; something that can lift your mood, spark reflection, and remind you of what matters most.
Why Framing Matters
Framing isn’t just about preservation (although protecting your treasures is important). It’s also about elevating personal meaning into everyday inspiration.
A beautifully framed item:
- Ensures your piece is seen and celebrated daily, not tucked away.
- Brings visual order and harmony, creating a calming environment.
- Protects against damage, so your memories last a lifetime.
- Turns personal stories into art, worthy of display.
By framing what matters to you, you surround yourself with reminders of resilience, love, and achievement - all of which support mental and emotional wellbeing.
Creating Your Own Gallery of Wellbeing
Your walls are more than just blank spaces; they’re opportunities to shape your environment and nurture your wellbeing. Whether it’s a cherished photo, a travel memento, or a meaningful artwork, framing it allows you to bring positivity into your daily life.
At Frame Today, we’ve seen firsthand how framing transforms not just spaces, but people’s moods and outlooks. The right frame can turn a simple object into a source of joy, comfort, and inspiration.
Final Thought
Art, in all its forms, is a powerful ally for mental health. By framing your personal treasures, you don’t just protect them - you celebrate them, turning your environment into a space that supports positivity, connection, and meaning.
So ask yourself: R U OK or what story, memory, or piece of art could you frame today to bring more joy into your life tomorrow?
If you or someone you know are Australian Year 7 or 8 students, you are invited to enter the R U OK? National Student Art Competition.
