Art in Ambulances
Research shows that both sound and light affect the brain and heart, and can have health-promoting effects. That’s why we are exploring how artistic expressions can be used within the confined spaces of ambulances.
Research in Artistic Intervention
Applied artistic research and artistic intervention in an ambulance vehicle are two key areas of an innovation project led by AISAB and the Culture Administration of Region Stockholm. A preliminary study examined the conditions for artistic intervention in ambulance vehicles—that is, how cultural expressions could be applied.
Participants from Various Disciplines
Between 2024 and 2025, the artistic expressions installed in a test vehicle are being adjusted and finely tuned. Specially composed music has been recorded by the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. The music helps to partially mask the sharp sound of the siren. Light design is another aspect of the project. Visual elements on the walls, windows, and ceiling contribute to the environment, while small tactile sculptures may be introduced as a distraction or as activity for patients in the ambulance. The pilot project was tested and evaluated during 2024 and 2025, with implementation planned for late 2025.
The Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra Has Recorded the Music
The orchestra recorded the piece Polyrhythmia—one of five newly composed works for ambulances. The orchestra is one of Sweden’s oldest symphony orchestras and performs at the Stockholm Concert Hall.
In this film, art project leader Finbar Krook Rosato and AISAB project manager Sebastian Bjöhle talk about the project.
Kontakta the Culture Administration
Implementation
The design project included the creation of artworks as well as research and full-scale tests in the fields of sound and lighting design, aiming to suggest improvements and optimize the ambulance’s internal environment.
The pilot project involved both the creation of unique works of art and the application of artistic research. It was funded by region Stockholm’s Innovation Fund.
Artists and Researchers Involved in the Project:
- Visual environment: Pia Sandström, artist
- Sound environment: Robin McGinley and Ricardo Atienza, Stockholm University and Aalto University. Five specially composed pieces were recorded by the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra at the Stockholm Concert Hall.
- Lighting environment: Rodrigo Muro Avendano and Foteini Kyriakidou, KTH Royal Institute of Technology
Preliminary Study
The preliminary study served as a foundation for the artistic design project, tailored to the ambulance context. It was funded by the Center for Culture and Health. The study included input from:
- Doctors
- Representatives from patient associations
- Representatives from senior citizens' associations
- Researchers in health sciences
- Artists
- Researchers in sound and lighting design
The project is managed by the Culture Administration through the Art Division, in collaboration with AISAB.
- Uppdaterad: 27 maj 2025