Art has the power to help people heal. Research shows that art can create a welcoming environment—lowering blood pressure and heart rate, as well as reducing pain and anxiety.

“Art can basically take you out of your head for a few moments and give you an easier time with whatever you are going through,” said Lauren Rabb, co-curator of Tucson Medical Center’s Healing Art Program.

Since its inception in 2014, the Healing Art Program has displayed more than 2,000 pieces across the walls of Tucson Medical Center TMCOne offices, Benson Hospital, and the Rincon and El Dorado health campuses.

“All of the art is donated,” Rabb said. “It’s a huge community endeavor. We are very fortunate that TMC has embraced it.”

Angela Pittenger, senior communications specialist at TMC, donated her artwork in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Three oil-on-canvas paintings featuring a superbloom of purple and yellow wildflowers are on display at the intersection of Drachman and Shropshire halls inside TMC.

“It was dark and gloomy, and everything was falling apart,” Pittenger said. “I had the opportunity to do something positive by donating these pieces and becoming part of the Healing Art Program.”

All artwork acquired by the Healing Art Program is gallery quality and carefully reviewed by the art acquisitions committee to ensure it aligns with the program’s mission of enhancing patient care.

While art hangs on the hospital walls, the halls are often filled with live music. Several musicians perform for patients and staff as part of the Healing Art Program.

“It’s been the most amazing and life-changing experience,” said Katie Baird, musician and special events coordinator at TMC.

Baird plays her viola at patients’ bedsides, nurses’ stations and lobbies. She takes requests—performing everything from classical pieces to movie soundtracks like Star Wars.

“Getting to play for real people—no matter what music I play—is extremely healing for me,” Baird said. “It has allowed me to see that anyone’s art can make a difference.”

To learn more about the Healing Art Program, click here.