title: Arousing curiosity: when hospital art transcends.
abstract: Evolutionary and emotional congruence theoretical perspectives support the use of certain types of artwork to reduce stress and promote improved outcomes in healthcare settings. This paper explores the artwork of three artists whose work falls outside the traditional representational art supported by these theoretical perspectives. The concept of curiosity as a common thread is proposed as the underlying theory in an effort to explain the success of such work in achieving positive outcomes for patients, families, and staff. Other concepts are explored as contributing theoretical frameworks. Research is needed to determine the impact of this emerging type of artwork and the implications of findings for individuals who create--as well as for those who select--art for healthcare settings.
authors.affiliation: Rollins & Associates, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA. jar83@georgetown.edu
authors.forename: Judy Ann
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Rollins
mesh_terms: D001154:Art; D005106:Exploratory Behavior; D006272:Health Facility Environment; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000517:prevention & control*