Programs
Community Mural
Continuing the tradition established in the 1930s the Work Progress Administration supported hundreds of murals across New York City’s public hospitals, community murals leverage artists and local community members to re-imagine hospitals and promote greater neighborhood wellness. Mural artists will engage with patients, staff, and local residents to create an integrated internal or external mural at selected NYC Health + Hospitals facilities, developing cultural ties between artists, patients, staff, and local residents.
Artist-in-Residence
Having a comprehensive artist in residence program is an important part of our strategy in Arts in Medicine. Artists have a unique approach that allows for staff and patients to feel connected, heard and cared for and evidence shows creating works of art engages our mind and body. The process helps us to be present in the moment and reduces anxiety. In 2023-2024, six NYC Health + Hospitals healthcare facilities will host year-long artist-in-residencies. Artists will support healthcare staff each week in artmaking projects; participants are invited to join any time during the artist’s weekly six-hour session. Each of our resident artists provide a wide range of instruction including painting, sketching, drawing, jewelry making, photography, creative writing, paper arts, fiber arts, natural fabric dying and botanical printing. Often exhibitions are planned as well. A listing of this year’s artists will be announced in Fall 2023.
We currently partner with The Creative Center to deliver this opportunity. If you are a site interested in having an artist in residence please reach out to: marinom3@nychhc.org.
Music & Memory
Music & Memory is a national evidence-based program that brings personalized playlists on iPods to patients or residents with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive loss. Music can reduce the need for medication and improve relationships for patients experiencing Alzheimer’s disease. Music & Memory is currently offered at a majority of NYC Health + Hospitals inpatient and long-term care facilities.
Lullaby Project
The Lullaby Project pairs pregnant women and new mothers and fathers with professional artists to write and sing personal lullabies for their babies, supporting maternal health, aiding child development, and strengthening the bond between parent and child. Singing during and after pregnancy can support maternal health and aid in child development and singing is one of few treatment options shown to reduce maternal stress during pregnancy.
HHArt of Medicine – Art Observation Workshops
HHArt of Medicine is an art observation program for health care staff that creates a safe environment for health professionals to deepen their connection with one another. Empathy based curricula is a core component of the HHart of Medicine social-emotional learning module. Learn more.
Music for the Soul
Throughout the years, NYC Health + Hospitals facilities have hosted concerts for patients, staff and community members. Learn more.
Rotating Art Exhibits
NYC Health + Hospitals facilities routinely host temporary art exhibits in their public spaces. Learn more.
Arts in Medicine Mobile App
Find us on Bloomberg Connects; download the free app below. Patients, staff, and the community can learn more about the history and content of the Arts in Medicine Collection and our Programs at NYC Health + Hospitals.