The arts and physical activity - a good fit

4 January 2012

Seven unique projects funded under VicHealth's MOTION pilot program have been launched to promote the arts, physical activity and social connection.

The innovative MOTION program aims to improve people's health through opportunities to get creative, active and involved in the local community.

Research shows that getting involved in the arts can benefit a person's mental health and wellbeing by improving confidence, self-worth and providing opportunities for self-expression.

The seven projects sharing in $650,000 from VicHealth include:

• The Giant Theremin – a super-sized instrument controlled by movement rather than conventional touch.
• Tangle – interactive outdoor play-space where 10 kilometres of elastic is woven around poles.
• Dance with me – a choreographer will develop short and easy dance routines that will be taught to community groups who will dance them in surprise performances in public places.
• 52 Flashmobs in 52 weeks – a series of spontaneous community events will offer fun and creative ways to demonstrate how to get physically active.
• Crowd Play – aims to bring together a large group of people from diverse backgrounds to actively participate in an inclusive dance and song performance.
• Roll Up – a VIP bike valet service providing cyclists with free secure and convenient parking when attending festivals and events.
• Atelier Edens – a smart phone application that will use GPS technology, cinematic chapters and original sound score to enliven interactions between visitors and the landscape of Point Nepean National Park.

Promoting physical activity and mental health are priorities for maintaining the health of Victorians in the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2011-2015.

Further information

To find out more about the activities, visit the VicHealth MOTION program website.