Welcome to the Art Program at University of Washington Medical Center
A growing body of evidence indicates that the presence of artwork, artists and arts experiences in the patient-care environment can benefit patients and their loved ones.
Art provides a positive diversion, inspires hope, and contributes to an atmosphere of healing and restoration. In the hospital setting, art addresses the health of the human spirit and body, reminding us of the human connections, life experiences and memories that can support and comfort us as we confront illness.
Since 1986, UW Medical Center has presented an Art Program to benefit all who walk through our doors. At the University of Washington Medical Center, the presence of fine art and art programs supports our commitment to excellence in patient care and service. It complements the world-class research and technology available to our patients and reinforces our dedication to compassion - bringing beauty, creativity, fellowship and the boundless human imagination directly to bear on the healing process.
Our program includes:
Ongoing support for the program comes from the medical center’s nonprofit Service League, which raises money for patient services through sales at espresso bars, a tea room and gift shop. Generous contributions from individuals, organizations, businesses and foundations support the acquisition of art, art materials and provide for special projects in visual, literary and performing arts.
For more information, or to offer your assistance, contact the UWMC Art Program manager at
neuhardk@u.washington.edu or call 206.598.6308.
The Permanent Contemporary Northwest Art Collection
This collection of more than 600 works of fine art features site-specific art and a variety of portable artworks in all media by artists residing in the UWMC’s area of service - Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho. Art is placed in public and patient care areas throughout the medical center, Surgery Pavilion, and the nearby Roosevelt Clinics.
Along with the Art Program manager, a selection committee of medical center staff, physicians, volunteers, patients, and community artists select artists who not only demonstrate a high degree of originality and skill in their work, but who also aim to engage the viewer. Deborah Butterfield’s
Red and Yellow sculpture of found objects fascinates young and old alike. Laura Sindell’s
Seeds to Save, Seeds to Sow mosaic of stamps alludes to the diffusion of values and ideals that occurs everywhere.
Holstein Hideaway by Roger Jones symbolizes well-being and invites the viewer into a quiet hideaway for a moment’s escape from the noise outside.
We invite you to take our
Self Guided Art Tour [PDF LINK] . Along the route you will see some of the major works in the medical center’s art collection. Our hope is that you will find pieces to love, and pieces to ponder and discuss. There is art for the casual observer and the art enthusiast.
For more information, to offer your assistance, or to request information about Art Tours, contact the UWMC Art Program manager at
neuhardk@u.washington.edu or call 206.598.6308.
International Textile Collection
This collection of more than 450 works transports vivid hues and stories from around the world into the medical center’s patient rooms, exam areas and hallways. The artworks pique our interest and reflect our patients’ diversity.
A pillow case from India (a swati phulkari), a multilayered mola blouse from Panama, and a ceremonial belt from Nigeria exemplify the textiles’ rich color and tradition. The works provide important visual and cultural bridges, encouraging us to appreciate the unique and common bonds of the people who work, visit and receive care here.
For more information, or to request information about Art Tours, contact the UWMC Art Program manager at
neuhardk@u.washington.edu or call 206.598.6308.
Special Projects and Exhibitions
Throughout the year the art program supports and provides for special projects, such as commissioned art works and installations, musician performances, and performing and literary projects in addition to those involving the visual arts.
The program maintains an ongoing schedule of temporary art exhibitions produced in partnership with regional artists and art organizations, the University of Washington, and UWMC staff. Check our
calendar for scheduled events.
- Valentines for Patients. The Artist-in-Residence program provides materials, instructors, and a space where employees and patients may come together to make personal valentines. Each year staff make valentines for our patients. On Valentine’s Day every patient lunch tray in accompanied by a hand-made valentine.
- Summer Fest, UWMC’s annual employee and family summer picnic. UWMC’s Art Program hosts a special Kid’s Activity area. Caricaturists, arts activities, and games are annual favorites.
For more information about special projects and exhibitions, contact the UWMC Art Program manager at
neuhardk@u.washington.edu or call 206.598.6308.