The Health Benefits of Touch and the Power of Engaging with Natural Materials in Art

Touch is one of the most fundamental human senses, shaping our perception of the world. Scientific studies confirms that touch plays a crucial role in emotional well-being, stress reduction, and cognitive function.

One of the most significant benefits of touch is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Research has shown that tactile engagement can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to relaxation and emotional bonding.

Engaging with sculptures made from natural materials such as wood, clay, or metal can provide a grounding experience.

The warmth of wood, the cool firmness of metal, or the textured surface of hand-glazed ceramics can foster a sense of presence and mindfulness. This tactile connection to natural materials stimulates sensory receptors in the skin, which communicate with the brain and nervous system to create calming effects.

Museums and galleries have traditionally discouraged touching artworks, yet contemporary approaches to interactive sculpture recognise that hands-on experiences can amplify the viewer’s emotional and intellectual connection to the piece.

One example of this was by Szubielska & Niestorowicz (2020), in which they conducted a behavioural experiment indicating that blindfolded touch of artworks produces greater pleasure than when vision is involved, underscoring the deep psychological benefits of unmediated touch.

Our work at Giles Miller Studio celebrates the power of touch in art and design. We create sculptural artworks that invite interaction, utilising natural materials such as wood, metal, and ceramics.

Our installations often incorporate textures that encourage both visual and tactile engagement. By working with organic materials, we harness the inherent warmth and tactility of wood, the structured fluidity of metal, and the grounding solidity of ceramic. These materials have an innate ability to connect with human senses, making these pieces not just visually appealing but also deeply experiential.

The integration of touchable natural materials in art holds therapeutic potential, offering an antidote to modern-day stress and digital fatigue.

As more artists and designers explore this sensory dimension, the value of engaging with sculpture through touch becomes increasingly recognised, not just as an artistic experience but as a means of fostering mental and physical well-being.

It is our hope that our work stands as a testament to this principle, demonstrating that the fusion of natural materials and interactive design can elevate both aesthetic appreciation and human health.

by William Lee, Lead Designer at Giles Miller Studio