An innovative, interdisciplinary project links the arts and health in a new outreach program at UMass. Directed by Professor of Nursing JeanineYoung-Mason and Fine Arts Center Director Emeritus Frederick C. Tillis, the project seeks to enrich and nurture the lives of individuals in health care settings. It is built on the belief - and solidly grounded research - that the performing and creative arts are important tools in improving health.

Franklin Medical Center (FMC) is a lead partner in the project. A Healing Arts Committee, formed at the FMC, has evaluated the physical and cultural aspects of a healing environment, such as noise level, air quality, visual spaces, and even the availability of comfort food. The committee has planned a monthly series of mini-concerts and art exhibits, and they're redesigning the courtyard and entrance gardens to include private spaces, enticing plants, sun protection, and serenity. Volunteers from the FMC, UMass, and the community are working together, and one of the clear outcomes already is that the volunteers are realizing their own creativity.

For more information about this exciting endeavor, please contact the project coordinator, Beverly Hill, at UMass, 413-577-6203.