Enhancing Wellbeing through Synergy of Art, Design and Technology to Support Mental and Social Health in Education

Faculty of Literature

Art and Design

July 29, 2024

Learning and Students

SDG 3

In a world focused on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all, art and design have a significant role to play in improving mental and social health. The ICA DECS 2024 conference hosted by the Faculty of Letters, Department of Art & Design, Universitas Negeri Malang, raises this important theme by exploring how the synergy between technology and tradition in art and design can be a bridge to a more prosperous future.

In an era where life’s pressures are increasing, art and design offer a space for self-expression, reflection and healing. When combined with technology, art can be extended in scope, providing wider and more inclusive access to individuals and communities in need of mental health support. Technology also enables the creation of virtual environments that support mental health, such as digital art therapy or apps designed for meditation and mindfulness. In addition, human-centered design plays a vital role in creating spaces that support social well-being.

Public spaces that are designed with the needs of the community in mind can encourage healthy social interactions, reduce stress and improve quality of life. Prof. Dr. Badrul Isa from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia, who was one of the speakers at the conference, highlighted how technology can be a bridge between the past and the future in art and design education, and how this synergy can strengthen mental and social health. Thus, the conference is not only a forum for academic discussion, but also inspires innovations that can be applied in real life to support mental health and social well-being through technology-enabled art and design.