Submitted
Interior Health recently collaborated with local artist Kelsey Van Raay to complete a new mural in Invermere and District Hospital’s emergency department.
The mural was painted on the ceiling and door of one of the patient care spaces within the emergency department. This room is primarily used for patients experiencing mental health concerns needing a quiet, non-stimulating space to be treated and cared for. The goal of the mural was to create a serene and calming environment for patients to help foster healing.
“My intent with my art has always been to connect people to our natural world and inspire them to appreciate nature and its healing effects. When I was asked to paint a mural within such a unique space, I jumped at the opportunity to create something that would provide a calming space for patients in need,” said Van Raay.
The project was generously funded and organized by Dr. JoyAnne Krupa, who was the successful recipient of the 2024 Early Career Leadership Award for Innovation in Opioid Use Disorder Care. The award included a one-time donation in support of clients with mental health and substance use disorders.
Dr. Krupa is passionate about the inclusion of art in hospital spaces and the benefits this can bring to patients.
“Anyone who has been a patient themselves knows how vulnerable that time can feel,” said Dr. Krupa. “This is particularly true for people who present to our emergency room in a mental health crisis. We know from research that physical environments significantly affect patient experience and recovery, yet the sad beige walls in our mental health room have not set the tone of a healing space. I hope that the transformation can help people feel uplifted in difficult times.”
Dr. Krupa said there is more work to be done by continuing to build community partnerships for further projects. “With the creativity of artists in the East Kootenay and community support for funding, we hope to continue making our hospital a more restorative and vibrant space.”
