McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital is reaching out to area artists for its “Healing Art” exhibit. Artists within a 50-mile radius of McCullough-Hyde are invited to submit work for the annual juried art show, which will result in the selection of approximately 60 original pieces of art to be displayed throughout the hospital for a year, beginning in mid-April.

“Research shows that original art work in a healthcare setting enhances the environment and promotes healing,” McCullough-Hyde CEO Bryan Hehemann said in a press release. “It also comforts and delights patients, visitors, and staff. In addition, research demonstrates that patients who view art recover more quickly.”

A Call for Entries brochure was recently sent to artists within a 50-mile radius of Oxford, with a submission deadline of March 11. The show will be jurored by Todd Butt, a Trenton artist who specializes in watercolor painting and teaches at the Middletown Arts Center. Butt will also work with a committee of hospital staff and volunteers to select as many as seven works from the exhibit for Purchase Awards. These pieces will be purchased by the hospital and other donors to become part of its permanent collection, and remain on display throughout the show.

“Last year’s exhibit was a great success. The healing effects of such creative works of art were felt throughout the hospital by patients, staff, visitors and families,” said McCullough-Hyde Development Director Julie Nickell. “We are very excited to welcome a new group of artists and artwork to McCullough-Hyde’s healing family for this year’s exhibit to enhance our healing environment.”

Anyone can purchase the remaining art, for which prices are designated by the artist.