More Art Donors Giving Works to Hospitals and Nursing Homes

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A growing number of art collectors are eschewing museums in weighing gifts and bequests, choosing instead to donate works to non-art-focused institutions such as hospitals, libraries, retirement centers, and nursing homes, The Wall Street Journal writes. Medical centers in particular have become favored destinations, with some hospitals amassing large troves of paintings and sculptures, primarily from donations.

Such gifts often arise from a contributor's personal connections to a particular institution, or concerns that pieces donated to museums will languish unseen in storage. Hospital officials tout the therapeutic benefits of in-house art, which studies have shown can reduce stress, boredom, and blood pressure for patients, visitors, and staff. The article also addresses tax and security considerations to take into account when weighing an art gift to a hospital or senior center.