Unmasking pain through art

Engaging with art can reveal what words often hide. Through creative expression, people living with pain can share their stories, challenge stigma, and connect in powerful, human ways.

Unmasking Pain Through Art

Sometimes, words just aren't enough. That's where art steps in - offering a way to express pain that's raw, real, and deeply human. At Leeds Beckett, we've had the privilege of partnering with the Balbir Singh Dance Company and colleagues from Durham University on Unmasking Pain, a nationally recognised project that's opened our eyes to how creativity can transform how we understand and live with pain.

As a pain scientist, stepping into the world of dance, music, and nature-based art was a revelation. Artists introduced me to new approaches to express pain - shaping pain in clay - and new 'treatments' - musical 'treats' - that help people in ways medicine can't reach. Our study about people taking part, led by Dr Kate Thompson, found three powerful themes: Space to Breathe, Flexibility to Participate, and Possibility for Change. These artist-led activities gave people living with pain a safe, non-clinical space to explore and reshape their experience.

We're now collaborating with Professor Nikos Stavropoulos on a new project using spatial acousmatic music to explore pain and suffering beyond conventional therapy. We'll be sharing this work at the Otley Festival of Science on 11 November 2025.

Art doesn't just reflect pain - it reimagines it, and in doing so, it opens doors to healing, connection, and hope.