Island Health is inviting local artists to have their work considered for display at the new Cowichan District Hospital.
"Island Health is committed to creating spaces that are welcoming and therapeutic for everyone who enters our care environments,” said Island Health Board Chair, Leah Hollins. “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 provides health and care services to more than 930,000 people on Vancouver Island, the islands in the Salish Sea and the Johnstone Strait, as well as mainland communities north of Powell River. They deliver a broad range of health services including public health services, primary health care, home and community care, mental health and substance use services, acute care in hospitals, and much more across a huge and geographically diverse region.
The new Cowichan District Hospital, which is expected to open in 2027, is seeking artwork that resonates with the themes of healing, resilience and the vibrant culture of the Cowichan Valley. The new hospital aims to become much more than a state-of-the-art medical facility, but also has the vision to be a space that promotes a sense of community, well-being, and recovery through art by enriching their healing environments both inside and out. By integrating diverse and local artistic expressions with top quality medical care, the new hospital is seeking to reflect the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley while creating an environment that supports not only the physical well-being of its community members, but also their emotional, and spiritual well-being.
While some artwork will be carried over from the existing hospital, artists selected for this initiative will be featured prominently throughout the hospital, including its community hall, patient units, entrances, corridors, waiting areas, and even outdoor spaces. Artists who are interested in contributing to this initiative are encouraged to attend the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project Art@CDH introduction event at the Cowichan Community Centre on Nov. 1. To receive more information about art opportunities and the event, visit www.islandhealth.ca/newcdh/arts and sign up for updates.
"Art has the profound ability to heal and uplift the human spirit," said B.C. Minister of Health Adrian Dix. "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."