Artworks are ubiquitous at Princeton Medical Center (PMC)—from the sculptures that are prominently displayed in the hospital’s atrium and outdoor gardens to the paintings and photographs that decorate virtually every waiting area and hallway in patient areas. But it’s not only about beauty. The art, like the natural light that infuses every corner of the building, is intended to promote healing.
Research shows that viewing art can help alleviate stress and anxiety, reduce blood pressure, shorten hospital stays and even limit the need for pain medication. And, it’s one aspect of a healing envrionment that benefits patients, as well as visitors, physicians, and staff.
The Art for Healing program was built into the design of the new PMC, which opened in 2012. Today, the collection includes more than 300 paintings, sculptures, photographs and other works that are displayed throughout the hospital as well as the Schreyer Education Center and the Medical Arts Pavilion. The three buildings are connected by a broad concourse that is home to the Art for Healing Gallery.
The gallery hosts rotating exhibits throughout the year featuring artists whose work is included in the hospital’s permanent collection. Works in the gallery are available for purchase, and a portion of the proceeds benefit the hospital. This month, PMC’s Art for Healing Gallery will open Reflections of Light, an exhibit of paintings by award-winning Princeton artist Lucy Graves McVicker. The exhibit will remain on display through March 1, 2019.