Greetings!
 Longing, that's what I am in the midst of, longing for Spring! My Louisiana and Texas roots tell me I should have long ago been in the garden removing the old and planting new. Now I find myself looking for signs of new growth hoping to see even the smallest of changes while Mother Nature, at least in Virginia, can't seem to make up her mind. A few weeks ago my daffodils broke ground. This week the beautiful new blooms were covered in snow. While I have become tired of winter, I could not bypass the unexpected combination of intense yellow and icy white; a surprising visual treat that brightened my morning and remained with me all day as Mother Nature herself gave me pause, offering me a new experience through her artistic combination of seasons. The long winter has made my eyes keener to appreciate any sign of spring. While part of me feels that winter is not stepping aside for spring as it should, other parts of me appreciate the challenge and have gone into overdrive making me intensely aware of even the smallest change or growth. I have to look harder, but I see more. Similarly in healthcare, when we look harder, we too see more; more opportunities to enhance experiences, lives, memories and connections. I am lucky enough to spend my days immersed in the art world. Healthcare art opportunities provide me with ways to see opportunities differently, in different settings and combinations. I invite you to join me in sharpening your vision - don't let artful elements pass you by. Discover and enjoy! Wishing you the welcome sights of spring - indoors and out! Sincerely,  Barbara Harriman, IIDA President/Creative Director
Distinctive Art Source
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Evidence based design has long ago proven that nature images are appropriate in the healthcare setting. But is there a difference between viewing an image of nature and actually experiencing the real thing? This article from Psychology Today digs into the discussion and asks the controversial question "Can HDTV beat Mother Nature?"
