Mural project is underway at Children's Medical Center and Children's Pavilion

By Michael Ford
University News Services

A huge art project is underway at VCU Medical Center to provide a single decorative theme, buttressed with educational benefits, throughout the Children's Pavilion and the Children's Medical Center.

There are a total of 66 murals - 32 for the walls of the Children's Pavilion and another 34 murals for the walls of the Children's Medical Center on Main Hospital's 7th floor. They range in size from 4 feet by 8 feet to 3-by-3. Known informally as "Open Doors to Knowledge," the art project features murals from different countries with plant, animal and architectural references.

"By drawing subjects from nature, these murals should have broad appeal to children of all ages, and even some adults," said Ted Batt, director of cultural programs, VCU Health System. "They will not seem dated in the coming years as opposed to a cartoon character who may fall out of fashion."

The artist, Colleen Hall, already has work on display at the hospital, specifically the ASK Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Clinic, that has drawn favorable reviews for its colorful décor and art. "Open Doors to Knowledge" represents scenes from nine countries, including the United States, Mexico, Australia, China, India and Tanzania. Hall approached each painting by researching native plants and animals, significant architecture and dominant points from each natural landscape.

"My goal was to create an environment that would help take the children's minds off of their illnesses, visually transport them to another place and engage their imaginations," Hall said. "I always envisioned this as something fun for the children and something educational as well. I hope to create a rich learning environment for the children, parents and teachers by sparking discussions of geography, history, science, culture and art"

MCV Hospitals Auxiliary of the VCU Health System has provided $20,000 for the murals on Main 7. Children's Miracle Network has contributed $25,000 for art in the Children's Pavilion and the costs associated with frames.

"We are very devoted to anything that has to do with children," said Jo Ann Burton, president of the MCV Hospitals Auxiliary of the VCU Health System. "I think the new murals are beautiful and Colleen's work is just wonderful. Trips to the hospital can be a little unsettling for some children. For every child who is comforted by the murals and stimulated by the images, it is well worth it."

Batt, who manages the hospital's art collection and coordinates temporary and permanent exhibits in the complex, says his mission is to create a healing environment at VCU Medical Center. "I believe that the arts can have a positive effect on the mental, spiritual and emotional welfare of patients and their family members," Batt said. "The pediatrics mural project accomplishes all that and the strong continuity will help establish a sense of familiarity for our pediatrics patients whether they are treated in the Children's Pavilion or the seventh floor of Main Hospital or the ASK clinic."