My newest venture--Art in Healing Spaces

I’ve just finished hanging art at the Symphony of Health Connections Medical clinic. It is an innovative new clinic in NW Calgary. I’m excited to tell you about this joint venture. Art is becoming a big deal in medical clinics nowadays, and for good reason! It benefits patients, healthcare providers, and even the whole healthcare system. Let’s dive into how art is transforming medical settings.

First off, let's talk about making the environment more patient friendly. Art can make clinics feel more welcoming and less scary. Referrals to clinics can be frightening. So, the artwork sets a tone. It's great at distracting patients from pain, anxiety, and fear, helping them feel more comfortable and relaxed. Art also creates a better space for patient interaction. It offers a common ground where patients and healthcare providers can connect. I discovered this when I was hanging my work. A patient came up, phone in hand, to show me the photos of skies he has taken. They were beautiful. This shared experience led to conversation and connection. The clinical setting is changed into a mutual human experience. Art makes medical clinics feel less like clinics and more like places where people care.

Art supports a holistic approach to healthcare by acknowledging the link between physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This can lead to more comprehensive care and better patient outcomes. It also helps build a sense of community among healthcare providers and patients. When people feel like they belong, it can improve patient results, satisfaction, and even the way care is delivered.

Next, art isn't just for patients; it's a lifesaver for healthcare workers too. For doctors and nurses, a bit of color and creativity in their workspace can lift spirits and make the job way more enjoyable. Staff members often comment on how much nicer the clinic feels with art, making it a more pleasant place to work.

Believe it or not, adding art to healthcare settings can save money. Research shows it can cut down on the need for meds, shorten hospital stays, and lower overall healthcare costs. Pretty cool, right?

There is a benefit for artists too! Artists are looking for venues to show their art. With the use of QR codes and web-based sales artists can direct people to where they can find their art.

In conclusion, art in healing spaces isn’t just about decoration; it's a key part of patient care and staff well-being. It makes healthcare environments more inviting, engaging, and supportive, leading to better medical outcomes and personal well-being for everyone. Investing in art in these spaces is a holistic investment in the healthcare system, offering emotional, physical, and economic benefits for all.

My work will be shown at Symphony Connections Medical clinic from June to the end of August.

You can also see the pieces on my website at www.helwigart . We’ve just revamped the website so that the art is places foremost on the site. Let me know what you think!