silverguide.site –

Julian Baggini (The long read, 14 April) is right to remind us that art has intrinsic value and that reducing it to a means to an end diminishes the very experience it offers. We couldn’t agree more that art should be enjoyed for its own sake.

But many people have not yet found their way into the UK’s brilliant museums and galleries. For those who do not see themselves as “art people” – whether for economic, geographical or cultural reasons – the question of art’s intrinsic value has not yet arisen.

Our National Art Pass adverts are an invitation to them: a way in and a form of permission. If discovering that standing in front of a Henri Matisse might reduce stress helps open the door, that is a valuable first step.

The evidence is clear that visiting museums and galleries supports wellbeing, and we are particularly proud of our recent research with King’s College London. The study was the first to demonstrate immediate, measurable physiological responses to viewing original works of art. It is not an argument for why art matters, but an account of something art can do to us – one that speaks to audiences who might otherwise feel excluded from the conversation.

At the heart of our adverts are extraordinary works, including Johanna Tagada Hoffbeck’s Growing Memories (2021) and Matisse’s The Snail (1952-53). Art Fund exists to promote art for all, not just the privileged few. Our hope is that anyone who encounters these works, whatever first drew them in, discovers their value for themselves.

Baggini’s argument eloquently describes the experience of those who already love art. Our task is to ensure that many more people have the chance to join them.
Jenny Waldman
Director, Art Fund

• Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.