The artist’s process can be an intense and emotional journey. But are they more prone to experiencing mental ill health? Image: Frankie Cordoba via Unsplash.
‘Can an artist do anything if they’re happy?’
But looking below the surface at the range of scientific and empirical studies in this area, you begin to realise it’s a patchy picture, full of largely unremarkable results.
And while some studies exist that claim that creatives are more likely to suffer conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia – it seems there are still no definitive answers, and no consensus on whether artists are in fact more prone to depression than others in the general population.
ArtsHub's Arts Feature Writer Jo Pickup is based in Perth. An arts writer and manager, she has worked as a journalist and broadcaster for media such as the ABC, RTRFM and The West Australian newspaper, contributing media content and commentary on art, culture and design. She has also worked for arts organisations such as Fremantle Arts Centre, STRUT dance, and the Aboriginal Arts Centre Hub of WA, as well as being a sessional arts lecturer at The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
