At Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, a center of the Stanford Medicine Children’s Health network, there are over 4,000 art pieces in their collection. These pieces, which include sculptures and paintings, not only enhance the hospital’s aesthetics but also promote well-being among patients, staff and visitors. Among these pieces, 2% are made from recycled materials, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to sustainability.
Some examples of the recycled artwork include a cow sculpture made entirely from used miniature toys, a white ram created from repurposed electrical conduits, gaskets and keyboard parts, a soccer ball made of recycled pencils and a tele-com dog formed from old telephone and answering machine parts. These unique pieces not only add a sense of whimsy to the environment but also contribute to a healing atmosphere for patients.
According to Antonia Dapena-Tretter, the hospital’s art curator, the artwork serves a dual purpose by not only benefiting patients but also supporting the well-being of healthcare employees. The presence of art creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that brings joy, levity and peace to all who interact with it. This focus on resilience and positivity among staff members ultimately improves patient care.
Moving forward, Stanford Children’s plans to expand its collection of sustainable artwork to further emphasize its commitment to sustainability. By prioritizing the creation of a healing environment that promotes health and well-being while also showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship, the hospital is setting an example for other healthcare organizations to follow.
