Mission Statement

Our Mission

The Institute for Arts and Health aims to contribute to a more diverse and equitable society by incubating and seeking funding for transdisciplinary research and community engagement broadly related to the arts and health. Bridging the arts, humanities, social sciences, digital technologies, and STEM areas, the Institute for Arts and Health facilitates opportunities for faculty, staff, graduate students, and community partners to share best practices, and explore opportunities to develop and secure funding for interdisciplinary research projects, curricular developments, and to have a visible impact in the community broadly related to the arts and health.

The Institute welcomes the participation and input of UofM faculty, staff, and students, and our wider community. As it strives to achieve its mission and aims, the Institute is committed to ensuring a diverse constituency and leadership team, and it will proactively engage with our community about its projects and opportunities for anyone interested in being involved.

Current Areas of Focus

Arts Initiatives for Health in the Community

Promoting engaged scholarship by identifying opportunities to improve health and well-being for the local community through interdisciplinary collaborations between the arts and health. This can also include both financial and mental health.

Health, Well-being, and the Built Environment

Exploring community engagement project opportunities between the University of Memphis, local design and health professionals, and members of the Memphis community that establish healthy living environments through sustainable design.

Health for Artists

Investigating potential collaborations between health professionals and artists in the service of maintaining health in individuals as they engage in their artistic expression.