Cultivating Creativity: The Role of Art and Visual Thinking Strategies to Support Community and Resilience for Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

The Creative Wellness Workshop Series, co-developed by Oregon Health Science

University (OHSU) and the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art (JSMA) at the University

of Oregon (UO), addresses the growing need for staff support in healthcare. Health

professionals frequently face significant challenges, including burnout, emotional

stress, and feelings of isolation in high-pressure environments. Recognizing the arts'

potential to foster resilience, connection, and emotional decompression, this series

integrates art-based approaches to provide relief and enhance peer support for

medical staff, faculty, and clinicians at OHSU. Key components of the initiative

include Art Walks and Creative Decompress workshops that employ Visual Thinking

Strategies (VTS), creating structured opportunities for slow looking, self-reflection,

and shared experiences. This study examines the effectiveness of VTS in reducing

burnout, promoting community, and enhancing well-being among healthcare

professionals. This collaboration is part of the broader "Art Heals" initiative at the

JSMA, which leverages art as a tool for resilience and education in healthcare

settings.

In response to increasing demands and stressors in healthcare, these workshops

aim to equip professionals with skills that support emotional resilience, a sense of

belonging, and methods for decompression. The program aligns with OHSU’s

strategic wellness goals and complements the “Creative Wellness” initiative led by

the OHSU Wellness Leadership Team. Additionally, it aligns with UO’s mission to

foster resources that enhance well-being and connection.