“Our experience indicates that using art and sensory stimulation has a significant impact on the birth situation. Our studies show heightened experience from both families and health professionals. I experience that the birthing room project has led to other findings, where the senses and our aesthetic sensibilities are engaged.

Our investment in this area has brought about a completely different way of working – it has been an investment with foresight. Art projects and aesthetic elements in the hospital have proven to be particularly meaningful for both citizens and staff. These initiatives provide an opportunity to experience and engage with high-quality art in a place where it is not typically encountered. By incorporating art and understanding the importance of the senses in the experience and process, we shift the focus to the significance of the environment and healing architecture. This can create space for an understanding that being sick, facing death, or having a child are also existential endeavors. We use art as part of our appreciative approach to the citizen, to help inpatients be less defined by their situation, offer expectant parents a better experience and a more relaxed atmosphere, and make the staff feel valued.”