Transforming healthcare spaces through the power of art and design is a rapidly growing field, with research showing that exposure to creative environments can reduce stress, improve recovery times, and enhance mental health.
The Transformative Power of Art in Hospitals: An Interview with RxART Director Katie Hollander
The connection between art and health is no longer just a theoretical concept; it’s supported by research showing that exposure to creative, engaging spaces can reduce stress, improve recovery times, and enhance one’s mental health.
Katie Hollander, the new director of RxART, understands the importance of this mission. Since its founding in 2000, RxART has been transforming sterile and intimidating healthcare environments into places of comfort and optimism through collaborations with leading artists and hospitals.
The Impact of Art on Patient Experience
The role of art in promoting healing is becoming increasingly recognized and understood. By commissioning artists to create installations that transform the physical environment, RxART can make a profound difference in how patients experience healthcare settings.
For example, Nicolas Party’s colorful trees dancing along hospital corridors are not only visually stunning but also transformative for both the physical environment and emotional well-being of patients. This is especially important for children who may already be feeling vulnerable.
Recent Projects and Collaborations
RxART has had the privilege of collaborating with over 60 artists on more than 40 projects in hospitals across 15 cities in the United States. Some recent notable collaborations include:
- Nina Chanel Abney’s interactive installation at the Pediatric Ambulatory Clinic at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, Queens
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Jonas Wood’s unique privacy curtains for Children’s National Hospital in DC
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Takashi Murakami’s 2022 work on the CT/PET scan suite at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.
These projects demonstrate RxART’s commitment to creating environments that reduce fear and promote a sense of comfort and security for patients.
The Appeal of Working with RxART
RxART offers artists a unique opportunity to engage in a less “intellectual” and more fun, approachable form of creativity. By transforming hospital spaces into engaging, colorful, and comforting pieces of art, artists can make a tangible difference in the patient experience.
Katie Hollander is excited about upcoming projects with leading contemporary artists, including Mickalene Thomas, Jonas Wood, and Alexis Rockman. These collaborations will not only bring joy and comfort to children and families but also humanize hospital environments and improve the patient experience.
The Future of RxART
As RxART celebrates its 25th anniversary, Katie Hollander is looking forward to working alongside Diane Brown to envision the future of the organization. With a focus on improving hospital environments and bringing joy and comfort to those in need, RxART continues to be a leader in the art world’s most beloved and worthy charities.
In partnering with leading contemporary artists, RxART doesn’t patronize children but rather offers them high-quality, meaningful experiences that can have a lasting impact on their lives.
