West Chester Medical Center to engage local artists

West Chester, Ohio - Art has the power to evoke strong emotions, and it may even have the power to help people heal. West Chester Medical Center (WCMC) is creating a healing, soothing environment for patients, visitors and staff by incorporating appropriate artwork, using the talent of local artists. The Call for Entries is for both professional and student artists in or from Butler, Warren, Hamilton and Montgomery counties in Ohio.

Building strong ties with the community it will serve is an important part of the new hospital's mission. "We're really looking forward to engaging local artists," said Carol King, WCMC senior vice president. "There are so many talented students and adults in our area and we want to take advantage of that."

Professional and student artists (high school and above) are encouraged to submit a portfolio of original work for consideration by the hospital art council. Photography, oil and watercolor paintings, sculpture, textile, printmaking, and other art forms will be considered. Students who are chosen will receive a $500 scholarship and adults will receive a commission to create a new piece.
According to research, compassionate, appropriate artwork helps calm, soothe and comfort patients, visitors and staff. Inspiration for suitable pieces might come from local scenery or history, or other subjects which evoke hope and courage.

Some subjects, while appropriate in a gallery or museum, might be out of place in a healing environment. Topics to avoid might include food items, nudity, specific religious themes, or other controversial or abstract subjects.

The deadline for submissions is May 5 for professionals and July 25 for students. More information and guidelines can be found at www.westchestermedcenter.com. Please e-mail questions to wcmcartwork@healthall.com.

West Chester Medical Center, part of the Health Alliance of Greater Cincinnati, is a new 160-bed hospital being built in West Chester, Ohio, and is expected to open in early 2009. It will provide the latest technology delivered in a healing environment. Conveniently located and easily accessible, services will include a full-service emergency department, and inpatient and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services. For more information about West Chester Medical Center or to view the construction web cam, go to www.westchestermedcenter.com.

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