It’s no secret that engaging in the creative arts boosts our mood and is good for our overall sense of wellbeing. But not everyone has access to the creative arts, and many struggle to make time for creativity in today’s busy world, full of digital distractions.
For Create Week, Create’s professional artists have developed seven activities that encourage people to stop and create space for mindful engagement in the here and now. The activities are available completely free of charge and have been designed to help people of all ages and abilities to explore their creativity.
How does it work?
Taking part in Create Week is simple: Anyone can access the free creative activities and get creative wherever they are.
Everyone is encouraged to join in the celebration of creativity by sharing their creations and reflections using the hashtag #CreateWeek.
Create Week participants can also enter a free draw to win £100 of art materials from London Graphic Centre to fuel their creative journey.
Create Week activities can be done anywhere and take just 10 minutes to complete, allowing busy people to bring the power and joy of creativity into their everyday lives. And anyone who wants to create for longer can, as all activities are open-ended and can be extended.
People are encouraged to get together with friends, family, neighbours, or colleagues and run their own events for Create Week. Whether they get creative with others or on their own, everyone can take part in the activities and engage with the campaign online, helping to raise awareness of the benefits of creativity.
Why is it important?
Modern life with its frequent digital interruptions can lead to poorer focus, increased stress and even depression. Thankfully, large studies show that present‑moment awareness reduces stress and improves emotional regulation, even when practiced briefly. Creative activities naturally foster mindfulness by focusing attention on the here and now.
UK‑wide reports show that creative activities can prevent ill health, support recovery, and reduce pressure on the NHS, while also being low‑cost. Create Week helps boost wellbeing by encouraging people to pause, switch off, and re‑engage with the present moment.
Nicky Goulder MBE, Founding CEO of Create, said:
“Access to the life-enhancing power of the creative arts should be a right, not a privilege, and that’s why we started Create Week. Everyone should have the chance to pause and make time for creativity, but our busy lives can get in the way. And many of us don’t know where to start. Create Week makes creativity easy and accessible by removing the barriers to participation. Creativity is not an “add-on” but an essential wellbeing tool that should be available to everyone. So make some time for yourself, download the free activities and join in with Create Week. We can’t wait to see what you create.”
