FFI Senior Fellow Gary Anderson, a theater director and producer with over 36 years of experience, makes a compelling case for centering the arts as a pathway to wellbeing and democracy.
FFI Senior Fellow Gary Anderson, a theater director and producer with over 36 years of experience, makes a compelling case for centering the arts as a pathway to wellbeing and democracy. Drawing from personal experiences, historical context and contemporary research, Anderson explores how art serves as a transformative force that can heal trauma, build empathy and strengthen social connections. His paper, “You Got a Right to the Tree of Life,” weaves together JFK’s vision of arts as a measure of civilization’s quality with FFI’s wellbeing frameworks, demonstrating how accessible, meaningful artistic experiences are essential to creating an equitable society where everyone can thrive.
Wellbeing isn't just a nice to have and we break down the myths and misconceptions about wellbeing and tradeoffs.
The Full Frame Initiative defines wellbeing as the set of needs and experiences universally required in combination and balance to weather challenges and have health and hope.
All of us share a drive to feel whole, individually and collectively. We're all hardwired for wellbeing, and we all deserve a fair shot at it, too. But we don't all have the same access.