The Psychiatric Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has a new addition that is prized not only for its aesthetics but also its healing capabilities. With the idea that a relaxing space can soothe a troubled mind, the Donna and Sen. Percy Malone Healing Garden, complete with sculptures donated by the Vic Jacuzzi family, was created. Named for its contributors — Percy Malone of Arkadelphia is a former state senator — the garden made its debut at a July 21 reception and dedication.
Dr. Dan Rahn, chancellor of UAMS, welcomed guests during the event’s program and credited Dr. Rick Smith, former dean of the UAMS College of Medicine and founding director of the institute, with his vision for the garden — which Rahn described as “a wonderful addition to the assets and to the whole environment for healing that so characterizes PRI.”
Dr. Pedro Delgado, director of the institute, also lauded the space as one that reflects “a sense of tranquility and hope.”
“Having a mental illness and being in a hospital is not something that is, in and of itself, particularly restful,” Delgado continued. “It’s a very stressful process … and having something like this available … gives you an opportunity to come out of that setting.”
Malone’s remarks highlighted the program, which also included remarks by Jacuzzi.
Ground for the garden, which had been in the works since the 2008 birth of the institute, was broken Feb. 27. Located outside the institute’s dining hall and designed by Tanner Weeks of Ecological Design Group, the garden includes two steel sculptures by Terra Sculpture.