Downtown Lawrenceburg, in partnership with Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Lawrenceburg, has been awarded a $25,000 grant through the Tennessee Arts Commission’s inaugural Tennessee Arts & Rural Health Initiative. The funding will support the creation of an outdoor, art-driven healing space on the hospital campus designed to improve wellness outcomes for patients, families, visitors, and staff.

The Tennessee Arts & Rural Health Initiative is a statewide pilot program awarding a total of $175,000 to 10 rural hospitals across Tennessee, supporting arts-based projects that integrate creativity into healthcare environments. The initiative is a collaboration between the Tennessee Arts Commission and the Tennessee Hospital Association and is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts and state funds.

The Lawrenceburg project will transform an existing hospital courtyard into a welcoming, restorative space through the integration of murals by Tennessee artists, decorative lighting, accessible seating, shade structures, and thoughtfully designed landscaping. The space will provide patients with access to nature and art while remaining within the hospital setting.

“Healing happens in many ways, and environments matter. Thanks to our partnership with Downtown Lawrenceburg and the support of the Tennessee Arts Commission, this grant will help us create a welcoming space that promotes peace, reflection, and wellness for everyone who walks through our doors.” Said Rhee Perry, CEO of Southern Tennessee Regional Health System-Lawrenceburg.

“This project reflects what healing can look like when we move beyond clinical walls,” said Michele Gantz, Executive Director of Downtown Lawrenceburg.  “By bringing art, light, and nature together in a healthcare setting, we’re creating a space that supports emotional well-being, reduces stress, and reminds patients and families that healing is deeply human. We’re proud to partner with Southern Tennessee Regional Health System on a project that places community, creativity, and care at the center.”

The initiative recognizes the role of the arts in improving quality of life and supporting rural communities. Projects funded through the program include the creation of murals, art therapy sessions, staff-focused art installations, and the transformation of outdoor spaces on hospital grounds.

The Lawrenceburg project is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and conclude by June 1, 2026.