NH Arts

The arts contribute to what it means to be human, including in times of illness. A continually growing body of research demonstrates the critical role the arts can play in the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities around the world. Arts in Health is a diverse, multidisciplinary field dedicated to transforming the healthcare experience by connecting people with the power of the arts at key moments in their lives. This rapidly growing field integrates the arts -- including literary, performing and visual arts and design -- into a wide variety of healthcare and community settings for therapeutic, educational and expressive purposes.

The New Hampshire State Council on the Arts has been actively engaged in Arts in Health for many years. Programs and services include:

Arts in Health Grants. Arts in Health grants support arts activities, presentations and artist residencies that occur in health care facilities, rehabilitation centers and in centers serving the needs of the elderly. The overall goal of this grant category is to utilize the arts to enhance the quality of life and promote an environment conducive to healing for patients, residents and/or clients. This grant category is in response to the Arts Council’s commitment to meeting the needs of underserved populations, which can include the elderly, people with disabilities and people with health challenges. Click here to learn more about this program.

Arts in Health Artist Directory. A searchable directory helps healthcare organizations find professional artists who are trained to provide arts experiences to residents and clients of hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. Artists in this directory have been juried based upon their ability to work in health care settings. Click here for more information.

Arts in Health Network. This statewide group was established to improve the health of New Hampshire citizens through the arts. The network serves as a catalyst, connector and convener for Arts in Health practitioners, supporters and programs throughout New Hampshire. All interested individuals are invited to join the NH Arts in Health Network email list. To join, please click here.

Images (top to bottom):

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Patient and Family Support Arts Program
Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center, two clients discuss photography using a switch adapted camera.
Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center Adaptive Dance Program
Artist residency with Bobbie Herron at the Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield, NH