Island Health has put out a call for artists to submit their work to be hung in the future Cowichan District Hospital.
Their goal is to enrich healing environments both inside and out of the new Cowichan District Hospital, which is expected to open in 2027.
Local artists are being invited by Island Health to contribute their visions to create spaces of healing, hope and comfort for patients and families, as well as staff, medical staff and volunteers.
“Art has the profound ability to heal and uplift the human spirit,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
“As we build the new Cowichan District Hospital, we want to ensure that every aspect of its design contributes to a personalized healing experience. We are excited to see the incredible talent of local artists come to life within the hospital campus.”
Island Health says the new facility is aiming to be a space that promotes a sense of community, wellbeing, and recovery through art.
In doing this, the hospital is seeking to incorporate the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley to create an environment that supports the wellbeing of its community members.
“Island Health is committed to creating spaces that are welcoming and therapeutic for everyone who enters our care environments,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health Board Chair.
“The incorporation of local art into the future Cowichan District Hospital reflects our dedication to fostering a nurturing space which respects and celebrates the unique identity of the people and communities we are privileged to serve.”
Island Health invites artists interested in contributing to this program to attend the introduction event at the Cowichan Community Centre on November 1st.
They say they will be looking for art that resonates with the themes of healing, resilience and the culture of the Cowichan Valley.
The artworks that are selected will be featured prominently throughout the hospital. This includes the community hall, patient units, entrances, corridors, waiting areas as well as outdoor spaces.
Additionally, some artworks will be brought over from the existing hospital.
Those interested can find more info online through Island Health’s website.
