Arts and Culture Strategy
The Arts and Culture Strategy for the St George Hospital Redevelopment was formulated to provide a unique and beautiful interior environment, creating a new paradigm for public hospitals by discarding the outdated clinical model. Our goal was twofold: to provide a welcoming and inspirational space for visitors and staff from our multi-faceted community and to create a place where patients and family members can escape their anxiety momentarily. Dedicated artists, who excel in their respective fields, contributed their unique vision to this exciting project. I feel privileged to have worked with such wonderful Arts Committee and project team members and I would like to thank the team at Health Infrastructure for putting Arts and Health firmly on the public agenda.
The Process
The Arts Committee was formed by hospital staff and community members then a staff survey was used to determine important aspects of an Arts Program. Local research was undertaken to ensure the region’s main features were reflected in the artworks and programs.
The Projects
The Atrium – Following her recent successful commissions in Sydney and China, Lindy Lee was invited to undertake the design of a 15m suspended sculpture evoking the St George dragon iconography and reflecting both Eastern and Western cultural traditions.
The Entry – Megan Cope, an inspiring young artist of Aboriginal descent, was commissioned to work with artists from the local Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation to produce a beautiful and meaningful community artwork.
The History Walk – The ground floor link corridor, connecting the hospital’s old sections with the new ASB, has been transformed into an informative walk through history combining photos highlighting the past and present with images taken by Shoufay Derz, a professional photographer and teacher at St George TAFE.
The Lift Lobbies – Each lift lobby has been turned into a visionary reflection of the St George region by artists Oliver Watts, Gabrielle Jones, Nicole Kelly, Shoufay Derz, Deanna Schreiber and Annette Webb.
A local photography competition was organised in collaboration with Moran Art Prizes with the finalists’ images on display throughout the hospital.
A ‘Happy Face’ community ‘selfie’ style photography project, led by Shoufay Derz, resulted in a colourful display highlighting the staff and patients’ playful side.
The clinical area corridors have come to life with full wall vinyls displaying nature at its best, thanks to images taken by Shoufay Derz, Mike Edmondson and Steve Turner.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with these gifted artists to create a more welcoming and enjoyable hospital experience"