Introducing Creative Public Health

This Cambridge Public Health seminar was held in March 2026. It introduces Creative Public Health as an emerging cross-disciplinary field at the intersection of participatory arts, museums, hospital arts, critical practice, and research in action. Drawing on examples from healthcare settings, cultural institutions and academic research, the speakers explore how creative practices can act as active ingredients in improving health and wellbeing.

The discussion highlights the principles that inform this work and reflects on the growing role of creative approaches within public health research and practice. The session also considers how creativity can be harnessed not only as a means of expression, but as a powerful tool for addressing health inequalities and supporting more equitable, healthier communities.

Speakers:

• Dr Emily Bradfield – Practitioner Research Associate: Collections & Wellbeing (Older Adults), The Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge
• Natalie Ellis – Head of Arts, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Dr Rachel Marsden – Research Fellow in Creative Public Health, NIHR SPHR Transdisciplinary Fellowship, PHRESH (Public Health RESearch for Health) Consortium, University of Birmingham & Keele University
• Dr Elena Cologni – Associate Professor of Contemporary Art & Critical Practice, Cambridge School of Art and Course Director MA Art Health and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University