Novant Health healing and arts initiative launched
In the coming months, Novant Health will collaborate with Charlotte is Creative to develop additional programming with local artists.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Novant Health has launched a new initiative exploring the intersection of the arts and healing, with an initial $500,000 investment aimed at engaging the community with art as a well-being practice.
The announcement was made during the Art of Remarkable Care event at Project 658. Several patients performed and spoke about how art has impacted their healing journey.
The new program will support local artists while focusing on the healing power of the arts for patients and healthcare workers.
“The arts are an integral part of healthcare and how we can expand access to our patients, access for the community by bringing in the arts into our care,” said Kristen Howard, Novant’s vice president of corporate affairs.
Studies in the American Journal of Public Health have shown that exposure to and participation in the arts can help reduce chronic pain, stress and anxiety. Research indicates that consistent interaction with art, including intentional music listening, can increase immune system responsiveness.
Some programming is already underway, including support for The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art’s Charlotte Art on Prescription pilot program and partnerships with the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, Charlotte Ballet and the Charlotte Symphony.
In the coming months, Novant Health will collaborate with Charlotte is Creative to develop additional programming with local artists. Plans include visual and performance art, art therapy, installation of murals and wall art by local artists, patient activities, and community-based arts events for vulnerable populations.
Seven Novant Health facilities across the Charlotte region will participate in the inaugural programming.
“We are working with each of our facility presidents around our footprint. Up in Rowan, down in Matthews, Ballantyne, Mint Hill, Presbyterian Medical Center,” Howard shared.
The initiative builds upon existing Novant Health programs like The Arts in Health program, funded by the Novant Health Foundation, which serves patients at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital and the Novant Health Cancer Institute.
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