We are all conscious of the effect of the aptly named Blue Monday, but did you know its origins? In American literature in the 1830’s it referred to the state of the labour workforce after the consequences of weekend drinking and the association of a depressed state of mind being called ‘blue’. Sky Travel labelled the day – 20th January – as the most depressing day of the year associated with financial struggles, awful weather and the failure of New Year resolutions. Annie Lee’s painting titled “Blue Monday” in various shades of blue, evokes a feeling of sadness and despair with the image of an African American woman struggling out of bed.

So how do we combat the blues?  Art is the answer!

Art is an instant mood-booster and has been found to support mental well-being, alleviate anxiety, reduce stress hormones, and increase dopamine and endorphin, neurochemicals and hormones in our brains. A great painting gives us feelings of relaxation, inspiration, and creativity. Images containing brightly hued colours, such as oranges, pinks, reds, and yellows, all create a sense of optimism.

So discover a mood-boosting painting at Picture This Gallery, where we display numerous images in a multitude of subjects. Find the one that gives you a natural high in the dullness of winter. A glimpse of what’s to come as winter turns into spring and summer.