Therapy Turns to Beautiful Art at The Oregon State Hospital

Patients at the hospital take great pride in their work, which is displayed throughout the hospital for all to enjoy.

Artwork allows a brighter than usual insight to the inner workings of the Oregon State Hospital Photo by: Kevin Hays

(SALEM) - It may look old and worn out on the outside, but on the inside, beautiful, and colorful hand painted artwork hangs from the walls for all to enjoy.

Patients at the Oregon State Hospital in Salem, are using culture and art as part of their therapy and daily living.

Patients work extremely hard on the artwork both as individuals, and as groups to help them learn and understand about different cultures from around the world according to George Bachik, Director of Social Work at the hospital.

Wards pick diversity projects and then study that culture and the country. From the country`s economy to geography.

Once their artwork is completed, the art is displayed in the wards living area, as well as throughout the hospital in public areas for all to enjoy.

The hospital hosts a diversity week in September, where hospital staff and the public are invited to take the diversity walk around the world.

A passport to handed out to attendees, who then can take a walk around the world, visiting different tables, that feature information, food, and pictures from that country.

A passport is handed out to attendees, who then can take a walk around the world, visiting different tables, that feature information, food, and pictures from that country.

Bachik says some patients even get groups to come and perform dances, and music.

They take this very seriously, and they work very hard on their artwork and diversity projects for all to come and enjoy Bachik said.

During the World Beat Festival, two pieces of artwork painted by patients from the state hospital were on display.

The state hospital rehabilitation services department also includes therapeutic recreation, occupational therapy, music therapy, physical therapy, dance therapy, outdoor adventure, patient library, canteen, barber, and beautician services, and various recreational facilities.

Also included are a range of vocational services including pre-vocational groups, a patient pay program, the Salem Rehabilitation Facility sheltered workshop, and services from vocational rehabilitation counselors.

All treatment services are individualized for each patient.