Manchester Art Gallery — United Kingdom

Research & knowledge exchange at Manchester Art Gallery

Manchester Art Gallery has developed mindfulness-based activities within its learning programmes, exploring how mindfulness can deepen the way visitors experience art.

In May 2023, Mindfulness in Museums founder Jolien Posthumus visited Manchester Art Gallery for a 10-day research visit connected to the museum’s work on Room to Breath.

The visit focused on how mindfulness practices can support visitors in engaging with art through attention, reflection and embodied awareness.

Research and Dialogue

The research project is conducted in collaboration with Goldsmiths, University of London, involving a professor and PhD researcher.

The survey-based study investigates bodily responses to artworks while participants engage in guided mindfulness exercises.

By combining museum practice and academic research, the project explores how mindful looking at art can influence perception, emotional awareness and well-being.

Impact

Projects such as this demonstrate how museums can become spaces where art supports reflection, dialogue and emotional awareness.

Participants often report:

• deeper engagement with artworks
• increased awareness of bodily and emotional responses
• new perspectives on personal experience
• a sense of calm and reflection

Partner

Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester — United Kingdom

Supported by

PPO — Platform ACCT
Supported by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW)

Connect with Mindfulness in Museums

Whether you are a museum professional, a mindfulness practitioner, or simply curious — this is your starting point.