Art at MeritCare

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MeritCare Art Philosophy

Artwork by Carl Oltvedt

The MeritCare Art Collection creates a healthy, positive environment using carefully selected art works. The concept is to select outstanding works of art that respond to the needs of patients and visitors according to healing environment criteria. The art collection attempts to reflect the professional attributes of the hospital which feature: high quality health care, experienced staff, empathy and compassion and a long traditional heritage of serving the area's communities. Each area in the facility will have an artwork, or artworks, that are reflective of the space and how it is used and perceived by staff, patients and visitors. The main entrance will feature a major work of art. The primary walkways and public waiting area will have major artworks, but on a smaller scale. The individual patient and exam rooms will have smaller works of outstanding aesthetic quality that offer more private meditations.

The Art Collection will attempt to convey a sense of community, particularly of the home and region. Where possible, local and regional artists will be displayed. The Art Collection will attempt to convey a sense of serenity and security to all viewers, including staff, visitors and patients. The Collection will encompass a variety of media, including, paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, ceramics, glass as well as high quality art posters.

General Guidelines:

• The MeritCare Art Collection will depict a variety of subject matters, with emphasis on representation of images that reflect our heritage, our regional landscapes, our urban areas and cities and our culture.
• All artwork will have positive content and convey a sense of peace, security, safety and familiarity.
• All artwork depicting people will express dignity and respect for the individuals.