Art RX IN OCEANSIDE
WELLNESS THROUGH CREATIVITY
Oceanside is at the forefront of a growing wellness trend that harnesses the power of art to support mental health. Known as “social prescriptions,” these experiences—ranging from museum visits to art workshops—are designed to complement traditional mental health care.
Leading the charge is the Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA), which recently joined a nationwide network of cultural institutions partnering with Art Pharmacy to deliver Art Rx prescriptions to patients of San Ysidro Health. Through this innovative program, patients receive a “prescription” for a museum visit—complete with a guest pass—encouraging art engagement as part of a holistic approach to well-being.
“We’ve always known that art is transformative, and positively impacts both individuals and communities,” says OMA Executive Director Maria Mingalone. “It’s exciting to be part of this pilot program, especially since it aligns with our own art-for-wellness efforts — leaning into joy and community, finding moments of respite, and showcasing art that inspires awe.”
You don’t need a prescription to enjoy a wellness-focused experience at OMA. The museum’s new Art & Wellness Guide is available to all visitors, offering tips for mindful tours, meditation opportunities, and interactive exhibits—like huggable art! Each experience is designed to spark joy, reflection and connection. With this innovative approach, Oceanside shows that art isn’t just to be admired—it can truly be healing.
More Ways to Cultivate Calm
Brightly painted pianos scattered throughout Oceanside invite spontaneous moments of creativity. Sit down, play a tune, and let music become your form of mindfulness and connection.
Take a self-guided stroll through Oceanside’s colorful streets and alleys, where larger-than-life murals celebrate community, culture, and the creative spirit that defines O’side.
Founded by Gulf War Navy veterans, Cynthia’s Artistic Expressions embraces art as a form of relaxation and renewal. Join a sunset paint class at The Seabird Resort and let the Pacific horizon spark your creativity and calm.
This working art house and collaborative studio nurtures creativity through rotating workshops in printmaking, ceramics, knitting, and more, inviting everyone to explore art as a meditative and healing practice.
Dive into the soothing world of ocean-inspired epoxy resin and fluid art classes. With swirling blues and organic textures, every piece created reflects the calm and movement of the sea.
Get your hands in the clay and discover the grounding rhythm of wheel throwing and hand-building in this cozy, creative studio – perfect for centering your mind while crafting something beautiful.
Check in. chill out.
Find rest, inspiration, and rejuvenation where wellness meets coastal style. Oceanside’s hotels are redefining what it means to stay well — blending art, movement, and mindfulness into every experience.
The Seabird Resort brings the OMA West gallery curated by the Oceanside Museum of Art. After exploring the artwork, wind down with a Paint, Sip & Gaze session led by Cynthia’s Artistic Expressions, where sunset views and ocean breezes set the perfect backdrop for creativity and calm. Then, experience the artistry of innovation at Sunny’s Spa with the Aescape Robot Massage, where technology becomes a sculptor of relaxation. This fully automated, AI-powered treatment lets you shape your session like a masterpiece, adjusting pressure, music, and ambiance through the intuitive Aerview console.
At The Brick Hotel, wellness rises with the sun. Start your day on the rooftop with energizing yoga sessions overlooking downtown O’side — the perfect balance of movement and morning light.
And at SpringHill Suites, serenity floats above the shore. Immerse yourself in floating sound baths, or find joy in motion with Paws & Pose kitten and puppy yoga — a playful, heartwarming way to stretch, smile, and start your day. Then unwind in their newly unveiled massage treatment room for that post-yoga restorative therapy.
art rx events
Salsa & Bachata Dancing Wednesday’s at The Surf ClubWeekly
105 Mission Avenue
Studio Arts Workshop | “Figure Drawing and Painting” at Oceanside Museum or Art
Oceanside Museum of Art
704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054
Star Theatre Co. Presents, “Annie, Jr.”Repeating Event
Star Theatre
402 North Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054
Taste of Art | Expressive Floral Paintings at Oceanside Museum of Art
Oceanside Museum of Art
704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054
Plein Air Paint Out with OMA Artist Alliance: Star Theater
Star Theatre
402 North Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054
discover the artful energy
Explore how creativity cultivates wellness through the vibrant arts and culture scene in Oceanside. Join Oceanside Museum of Art Executive Director Maria Mingalone and local muralist Skye Walker as they share the deep connection between art and the city’s spirit. From immersive museum exhibitions to uplifting public murals and the ever-evolving Artist Alley, this video celebrates how Oceanside’s art scene transforms both the cityscape and community well-being through every brushstroke.
