Barbara Harriman Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Leadership at Distinctive Art Source

After more than two decades of visionary leadership, Barbara Harriman, IIDA, EDAC—Founder and President Emeritus of Distinctive Art Source—has officially announced her retirement, effective May 31, 2025.

Barbara founded Distinctive Art Source in 2002 with a singular mission: to bring meaningful, patient-centered art into healthcare environments across the country. Over the past 22 years, her passion for healing through art and her commitment to locally sourced, evidence-based programs helped shape DAS into one of the most respected healthcare art consulting firms in the nation. From hospitals and cancer centers to behavioral health and specialty clinics, Barbara’s influence can be seen—and felt—in hundreds of thoughtfully curated spaces.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to align my work with my passions,” Barbara shared. “Connecting clients, patients, artists, and communities through art has been both a mission and a joy. I’m stepping into retirement with deep gratitude and a full heart.”

Barbara’s multidisciplinary expertise in interior design, lighting, MEP design, and contract administration—combined with her unwavering creative vision—earned her national recognition, including the 2015 Person of Distinction Award from the Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo. She has also served as a speaker at numerous industry events and helped establish best practices that continue to influence the field.

Barbara’s retirement comes on the heels of Distinctive Art Source’s merger with TurningArt in 2024—a partnership that ensures the mission and values of Distinctive Art Source will continue with strength and integrity. Barbara worked closely with the TurningArt team to support a seamless integration and is proud to pass the torch to TurningArt’s President, Mari Cook, along with a growing team of healthcare art specialists dedicated to advancing her legacy.

“Barbara built something truly special. Her belief in the power of art to transform healthcare environments has inspired us all, and her legacy will continue to guide our work as we grow into the next chapter,” Mari Cook shared.

Learn more about Barbara’s legacy and career →

Please join us in celebrating Barbara’s remarkable career and in thanking her for her extraordinary contributions to the field of healthcare art. We wish her the very best as she embarks on this new chapter filled with creativity, exploration, and well-earned adventure.