Background photography by: Abhi Ganju, M.D, www.abhisphotos.com.

Barbara Harriman, IIDA, EDAC

Distinctive Art Source’s Founder, President and Creative Director Emeritus

Bachelor of Interior Design, School of Architecture: Louisiana State University Minor in Art History

Barbara Harriman is the visionary founder of Distinctive Art Source and the DISTINCTIVE-ly creative force behind its nationally recognized healthcare art consulting work. For more than two decades, Barbara led Distinctive Art Source with a deep commitment to purpose-driven art programs that center the patient experience, establishing the firm as a pioneer in evidence-based, locally sourced healthcare art.

With 36 years of industry experience and a multidisciplinary background spanning commercial interior design, contract administration, and lighting and MEP design, Barbara’s work has had a lasting influence on both healthcare environments and the broader field of art consulting. A nationally recognized speaker and the 2015 recipient of the Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo Person of Distinction Award, Barbara is also proud to have led Distinctive Art Source to multiple honors, including being named an LSU Top 100 Firm in 2016, 2017, and 2018.

In 2025, Barbara announced her retirement after 22 extraordinary years at the helm of Distinctive Art Source. Her departure marks not an end, but a transition into new creative pursuits—and a continuation of her legacy through the team she helped build. Since merging with TurningArt in 2024, Barbara has played a key role in ensuring that Distinctive Art Source’s mission and values are carried forward.

Barbara’s career has been defined by meaningful connections—between clients and artists, art and healing, purpose and place. Her influence lives on in every space touched by her vision and in the generations of professionals she’s inspired to bring more beauty, intention, and humanity into healthcare design.