Experience the healing power of the arts
Arts in healthcare
Established in 1996, the Arts in Healthcare Program at CHI Memorial is powered by our mission to provide a healing environment and ministry. CHI Memorial is one of 2,500 hospitals nationwide who offer arts programming to supplement healing environments, enhance mental and emotional recovery and create soothing ambiance for patients, visitors, families, staff, volunteers and the medical community.
The program is led by the Arts in Healthcare Advisory Council, which consists of 20 members who volunteer their time, talent and financial support for the continued development and sustainability of the Arts in Healthcare program at CHI Memorial. The Arts in Healthcare Program also has an Ambassadors group assisting with its public awareness.
Permanent collection
Currently, CHI Memorial’s permanent collection includes more than 250 pieces that reflect CHI Memorial’s values of Compassion, Inclusion, Integrity, Excellence and Collaboration. Artwork allows patients the opportunity to reflect on the artist’s expression rather than the health issues they are facing.
Education and community outreach
CHI Memorial partners with many local arts organizations to encourage the use of arts in the healing process inside and outside our walls. Partnerships with organizations such as Chattanooga Ballet and the Chattanooga Symphony are just few examples.
Each year since 2000, CHI Memorial has hosted the Cam Busch Arts for Health Series to increase community awareness of the benefit of integrating arts in healthcare. Under the leadership of Cam Busch, registered nurse and certified art therapist, the lecture series brings world renowned art for health advocates and speakers to the podium with thought-provoking presentations and performances. This program is currently presented jointly with the Hunter Museum of American Art.
CHI Memorial Foundation and AIM Center have partnered to create a permanent gallery space on the 4th Floor/ MICU waiting area at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga.
Creative art therapy and art experiences
The use of art in the healing process is encouraged across the continuum of care at CHI Memorial. Creative arts programs can provide meaningful therapeutic opportunities for people of all ages in a variety of treatment settings.
Healing gardens
Therapeutic gardens fit beautifully into CHI Memorial’s mission and vision to create environments, indoors and out, that promote healing of the mind, body, and spirit. Multiple healing gardens can be found on the hospital campuses.
Jay Craven Music @ Memorial
Named for long-time CHI Memorial Volunteer and well-know clarinetist, the Jay Craven Music @ Memorial Program is an important element in the creation of an environment conducive to healing. Music can relax the body, mind, and spirit allowing more effective responses to treatment for many patients, including the critically and chronically ill. Jay Craven Music @ Memorial is a service offered by a variety of volunteer musicians who play at the bedside and in the common areas of the hospitals.
How you can help
Your contribution will sponsor a workshop, create a garden, purchase a sculpture and help fill corridors with the comfort and surprise of original art. You can contribute with a one-time gift or you can become a Sustaining Giver to the Arts in Healthcare Program with a monthly contribution.
With your sustaining gift of $25 each month automatically charged to a credit card or an annual gift of $300 per year, you will receive the following benefits:
- Invitations to previews new permanent works or rotating exhibits
- Inclusion in exclusive discussion groups and education opportunities
- The ability to help select one new piece for the permanent collection each year placed in honor of the Sustaining Givers.
You can support the Arts in Healthcare program at CHI Memorial through secure online gifts including the following options: