In spring 2026, The Joy Labs partnered again with Winona Area Public Schools’ Area Learning Center (ALC) to co-design & co-create a mural in Winona Health’s on-site school-based clinic. Students met with The Joy Labs to consider what elements make up a healing-centered design. Artists used creative problem-solving skills and empathy as they worked together to come up with a design. When asked to share more about their process, artists shared:

How did we come up with the design?

“As a group we came together and talked about what vibe we wanted the mural to give off, which we decided was going to be calm/calming.”

“We wanted to make people feel calm and relaxed while they wait or get check ups.”

“We wanted a landscape for comfort. We took splotches to compare and contrast and find nice calming colors.” 

What things did we consider?

“We took into consideration who or how the room would be used and the people who commissioned the mural. We agreed that natural elements were best for a more calming space.”

“How we considered was our budget, who was using the room.”

“We considered who uses the space, who works in it, our budget.”

“We considered colors and design for being calm and for healing.”

How did we choose the colors?

“We wanted a simple and calming palette.”

“We wanted it to not be too crazy but we wanted calm but vibrant so tha’s how we came up with the colors.” 

Why did YOU want to be involved in this project?

“I like projects and it seemed really fun.”

“I love painting and art and I neve painted a big piece.”

“I wanted to be involved because I don’t paint often, especially something as big as a whole wall. And it’s good practice for any future projects.” 

“I wanted something different to what I typically do and wanted to work in a group.”

What/how do you want people to use this space feel?

“I want them to feel peaceful and calm.” 

“I wanted people to feel not overwhelmed and calm.”

“I want the people in the room to feel calm and welcomed and safe.”

What do you want people to know about health?

“I want them to know it is important…and not to eat the art supplies.”

“It’s okay to ask for help!”

“People want to help you.”

Anything else you’d like to say? 

“I had a lot of fun working with everyone in the group and I would love doing this again sometime.”

“This project was really fun and I’d be more than willing to do this again, especially since I’m not familiar with art.”

This project was funded through an Artists & Culture Bearers in the Schools FY2026 grant from Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council (SEMAC). SEMAC activities are made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from MSAB thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.