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During the design planning for the replacement hospital in Owatonna, we realized that the healing process for patients must involve more than medicine and technology. It’s well documented that human touch, personal caring and overall environment make a difference in a patient’s recovery. Besides investing in clinical care excellence, we deliberately created an environment that also encourages healing through architecture, interior design and a healing arts program.

The Healing Arts Program at Owatonna Hospital seeks to enhance the patient experience by using the arts as positive distractions to reduce pain, anxiety and stress often associated with in a health care environment. Its main mission is to create restorative and calming environments for patients, visitors and staff by integrating the creative arts and aesthetic experiences into purposeful displays that add to the healing process.

The visual arts, music, natural light, images and elements of nature, and healing interior design have shown to contribute to the comfort, safety, privacy, and wellness of every individual involved in the healing process. They engage viewers momentarily in reflective and transformative experiences that naturally contribute to lessening anxiety, stress and worries and promoting healing.

The Healing Arts Program is collaboration between Owatonna Hospital and the Owatonna Arts Center. Works by regional and local artists that speak to the essence and spirit of healing are displayed in waiting areas, conference rooms, and patient and staff corridors. Exhibits are rotated every three to four months, offering variety and interest for patients, families, visitors and staff, as well as opportunities for many regional artists to participate.

Patients, visitors and staff can also purchase select pieces of art on exhibit. To purchase a piece of artwork, call 507-451-0533.

All of the artwork is for sale. For more information contact the Owatonna Arts Center at 507.451.0533