To enrich healing environments indoors and outside the new Cowichan District Hospital, expected to open in 2027, Island Health is pleased to announce a call for artwork to be commissioned for display at the site. Local artists are invited to contribute their creativity and vision to foster spaces of healing, hope and comfort for patients, families, staff, medical staff and volunteers.
"Art has the profound ability to heal and uplift the human spirit. 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," said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
The new hospital aims to become more than a state-of-the-art medical facility; it is envisioned as a space which promotes a sense of community, wellbeing, and recovery through art. By integrating diverse and local artistic expressions with top quality medical care, the hospital seeks to reflect the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley, creating an environment that supports the physical, emotional, and spiritual 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."
Program Details:
Artists 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 November 1. We are seeking artwork that resonates with the themes of healing, resilience and the vibrant culture of the Cowichan Valley. Selected artworks will be featured prominently throughout the hospital, including the Community Hall, patient units, entrances, corridors, waiting areas, and outdoor spaces. Some artworks will be carried over from the existing hospital.
To indicate interest in the Arts Program or to receive more information about art opportunities and the event on November 1, please visit www.islandhealth.ca/newcdh/arts and sign up for updates.
The Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project is being delivered by the Nuts'a'maat Alliance, whose partners include Island Health, EllisDon Corporation, Parkin Architects, BC Infrastructure Benefits and Infrastructure BC.
Image Note: Artist rendering – details are being finalized during design and construction