Art and health come together at the new Lawrence Memorial Hospital West facility with a showcase of permanent and rotating local art collections curated by the Lawrence Arts Center. This unique partnership between the Arts Center and LMH enables patients, visitors, families and hospital staff to experience art in their surroundings. In 2019, The World Health Organization (WHO) published a report on the benefit of arts on healing. To have original work to experience around every corner in Lawrence’s new health facility–from hallways and waiting areas to grand entrances–is a beautiful testament to that connection.
The exhibit space in the main entrance of LMH West will show works by local artists on a rotating schedule. The inaugural show features sequin work by artist Kristin Morland. More than 35 pieces from local artists including Lisa Grossman, Louis Copt, Ann Dean and Angie Pickman are part of the permanent collection of 2D and 3D art that is exhibited throughout the building. One special highlight is a mural commissioned from Adam Smith and Adam Lott in the sports and physical therapy wing. The colorful digital piece comments on the backdrop of the Lawrence scenery that is visible through glass windows behind it.
In a recent article in the Lawrence Journal-World, Arts Center staff discussed the process of curating works for this project and how pieces were placed in the building.
“It’s not decoration. We’re putting art in there made by local artists that maybe gives them a chance to take their mind off something that they or their loved ones are experiencing.”
– Exhibitions Director Ben Ahlvers
Whether you are visiting, working or making a special trip to see the new facilities at LMH West, we hope you find a moment to experience the art in your surroundings.