Abstract
The demand for less hostile and more humanitarian ways of caring for patients in health care institutions are becoming more widespread and accepted in Japan. In the city of Tsukuba, student groups are leading the way in developing ways in making hospital stays less stressful through arts programs. This paper is the result of direct participation, observation, and assistance by the hospitals, medical staff, and students who are organize hands-on projects and interactive art sessions designed to serve patients directly. The Arts in Hospital program is a useful tool in engaging community participation and communication among students and hospital staff. It provides a learning opportunity to students, and a creative outlet for patients on extended care. Active participation by students has a very positive impact on by giving them practical outlets to exercise their creativity and knowledge, while hospitals benefit through their service, which also cuts costs. Further research is needed to identify the direct benefit to patients, and the future prospects of arts-based hospital projects in Japan.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Notes
1. You may view the adp archives at (in Japanese): http://info-d.geijutsu.tsukuba.ac.jp/(adp/index.html
2. You can find out more Asparagus and their activities through their Facebook page at (in Japanese): https://www.facebook.com/adp.asparagus
3. More information about the international activities of the Arts in Hospital project at the University of Tsukuba can be viewed at: http://www.geijutsu.tsukuba.ac.jp/(artsinhospital/