UAB Arts in Medicine

Learn More

UAB Arts in Medicine (AIM)

Through a collaboration with the Alys Stephens Center and UAB Medicine, UAB Hospital was the first hospitals in Alabama to have a formal Arts in Medicine program. AIM brings an integrated approach to the healing process that addresses the needs of the mind, body and spirit by transforming the environment of care for patients, families and staff through creative
arts experiences in hospital and non-hospital settings with trained teaching artists-in-residence, and board-certified music & arts therapists.
Research has demonstrated that integrating the arts into the healthcare environment can benefit patients in the following ways: reduced stress levels; improved mood; distraction from medical problems; and reduced suffering. Studies demonstrate the positive impact an art activity can have during a hospital stay, creating a brief respite from examinations and medical procedures. AIM’s workshops provide that much needed diversion for patients and their families. Community-based programs, like Aging Creatively, are designed to enhance general well-being and support positive aging.
AIM started with art programs in 2 hospitals for 10 hours a week. The program now provides services for over 80 hours a week at UAB Hospital, Children’s of Alabama, at Aging Creatively facilities and other community partners including CARES, Founder’s Place, and St. Vincent’s East.

Interested in working with Arts in Medicine? Please complete this application.

CLICK HERE

Meet the Team

Kimberly Kirklin
AIM Director

Lauren Edwards
AIM Program Coordinator

 

Hospital & Community

Avivi Behel
Artist in Residence

Haleigh Black
Musician in Residence

Salaam Green
Artist in Residence

Sarah Heath
Artist in Residence

Valerie Hanks
Provisional Art Therapist

Melissa Turnage
Artist in Residence

Cristal Brister
Artist in Residence

Melanie Rogers
Musician in Residence

Ellise Mayor
Teaching Artist

Stephanie Tatum
Teaching Artist

Mary Horn
Teaching Artist

Kim Richardson
Teaching Artist

Amber Orr
Teaching Artist

John Scalici
Therapeutic Drummer

Children’s of Alabama based Music Therapists

Libby Stephens
Sunny Davenport

You Can Make a Difference

Help UAB Arts in Medicine offer comfort and hope to hospital patients through the healing power of the arts.

GIVE TODAY

Upcoming AIM Events