In 2026, I started to research the therapeutic potential of visual art to enhance mental wellbeing.   I discovered research regarding fractal patterns in nature.  Fractal patterns are aesthetically pleasing and occur in nature where patterns repeat at increasingly fine magnifications. Studies have found that humans experience less stress and better wellbeing when looking at fractal patterns.  Fractal patterns ease stress by aligning with our brains wiring, fostering relaxation and emotional balance.  These patterns are found in abundance in rainforest settings in the form of fern leaves, where the pattern repeats.  Looking at fractal patterns in nature comes easily to the human brain.

 

Research in colour psychology suggests that colours can evoke psychological reactions that influence moods and emotions.  In particular, green is a calming shade that supports overall wellbeing and stress relief.

 

I am currently engaged in a body of work which seeks to create art which is more than just an aesthetically pleasing object.  I am using images inspired by the rainforest.  Compositional elements and colour choices are informed by fractal pattern theory and colour psychology to produce works of art which have a positive impact on wellbeing and stress reduction.  As this body of work progresses, I am testing different compositions, colours and textures to establish which elements best contribute to creating an artwork which has a positive effect on the viewer.  

 

These works prompt connection with nature and reduce stress, providing the viewer space to be, space to breathe and space to think.  These are not works to drive you to action, they are works to sit with in quiet reflection.

 

I am painting the landscape that gives me solace, the greens in these work calm the viewer while the changing tones and patterns in the foliage keep the eye moving across the canvas exploring the rainforest.  The composition does not lend itself to one way of viewing, these works encourage a slow look with endless discoveries as the eye moves around the painting.