Stop 8. Art at Saint Joseph Hospital
Art’s alive everywhere in Berea, even in the hospital! The art program at Saint Joseph Berea (SJB) Hospital, which began in 2009, is unique in several ways. The artwork is created by local artists with regional images that provide a sense of familiarity that provides comfort. Colors are carefully considered in line with the concept of an Optimal Healing Environment®. There are permanent installations and rotating exhibits in partnership with the local arts council, a wall of children’s artwork, and solo and group exhibits. Among the permanent installations are several pieces created by hospital staff working with the hospital’s artist-in-residence, Debra Hille. Hille not only coordinates the selection process and selection of the art purchased and engages staff in creating art; she also works with patients. She invites patients to try their hand at collage, rubbings, watercolor or other media. Patients say creating art helps to reduce their stress, and nurses report that being able to talk to patients about their artwork eases communication. Hille has created some of the artwork herself, including the sculpture of a hand holding a heart in front of the Heart and Vascular Center. This sculpture is a part of the Show Of Hands Public Art Project.