Soothing Scapes

Inspiring calm through art

At Soothing Scapes, we specialize in transforming healthcare spaces—hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities, and more—with serene, nature-inspired photography that fosters tranquility.

Our mission is to create environments that not only comfort those in care, but also support the well-being of the professionals who serve them.

You’re likely already working on improving the experience for those in your care, whether they are patients, residents, or staff. While efforts like improving communication and implementing better policies are crucial, creating a welcoming environment is another powerful, often underutilized, way to enhance the experience. We understand the constraints of budgets and time, so we’re dedicated to making this process seamless and accessible, using a transparent mission-based pricing model.

"Dr. Petrack's collection is a welcomed addition to Outer Cape Health Services and his photography adds a warmth and calmness to the walls of this healing space…. Emory's beautiful costal photography provided a focal point and enjoyable conversation piece for patients and staff during the time it has graced the walls of the Wellfleet location."

Why does this matter?

At Soothing Scapes, we believe in the healing power of art, and scientific research backs up the benefits of art in hospitals and healing spaces.

The inclusion of art in hospitals has been shown to:

Check out our Healing Power of Art PDF to learn more about the science-backed benefits of artwork in a variety of healthcare settings.

About Me

After more than 30 years leading pediatric emergency departments, I’ve seen how overwhelming healthcare environments can be. Stress weighs on patients, families, and staff alike—but I’ve also seen how the right surroundings can create moments of calm.

During Covid, when stress was at an all-time high, I installed my landscape and seascape images in my ER, and the response was immediate—staff felt relief, and patients paused to take them in. I saw the same effect in my mother’s assisted living setting, where peaceful imagery brought her and others comfort in her final months.

I know that healthcare and assisted living leaders face relentless challenges, from staffing shortages to budget constraints. Art won’t fix everything—but it can offer a simple, meaningful way to ease stress and support well-being. Through Soothing Scapes, I help leaders create calming spaces without adding to their workload or stretching their resources.

Emory Petrack, MD, FAAP, FACEP

My work has been featured in the Tufts Medical Center Emergency Room in Boston, Outer Cape Health Services in Wellfleet, The Cambridge Homes assisted living facility, and at multiple exhibits throughout Boston and Cape Cod.