Introducing art into healthcare can help create therapeutic environments and promote wellbeing, says Bristol-based independent arts consultancy, Willis Newson, which adds:
“Art supports good design, adding value and interest to architecture, landscape, and interiors. It helps create identity, welcoming first impressions, intuitive wayfinding, stimulating social spaces, and restorative gardens. It can create environments which feel homely and safe, promote pride and ownership, and encourage meaningful activity. “Artist-led participatory projects are effective in meeting the needs of service-users. For instance, we worked with artist, Ray Smith, to devise printmaking workshops for serviceusers at Oakwood Ward, a mixed adult acute unit at Bristol’s Southmead Hospital. The workshops provided enjoyable and creative activity, and allowed service-users to contribute to the design of their own environment. The resulting series of printed panels use colours that tie in with the interior design scheme, and help create a welcoming, personal identity for the ward.”
