An inspiring artist offers patients a ‘view out the window’ with murals designed to spark an escape from the sterile environment of chemotherapy, taking them on an imaginary journey to somewhere sunny.
Colleen Wall’s journey in arts and health began in 1995, when she was diagnosed with cancer when she was four months pregnant. This life-changing experience fueled his passion for using art to uplift others facing similar battles.
After overcoming cancer, she served as an artist in residence on the oncology floor at Women’s & Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, an experience that changed her perspective – and her mission – forever.
One spring morning, Colleen walked into a patient’s room and remarked, “It’s so nice outside!” » The patient looked up from her bed and replied, “It’s always the same from here.” »
This simple but powerful exchange gave birth to Colleen’s project idea: A View for a Room – Transforming Healthcare Spaces.
It was successfully funded through crowdfunding Kickstarter campaign ten years ago, and this presented her with the opportunity to take a painting sabbatical where she created 20 inspiring paintings she called LandEscapes.
Designed specifically for healthcare environments, window-inspired paintings incorporate elements of nature and always include roads and paths to invite the viewer into the scene. They also feature words of encouragement and inspiring ideals.
Colleen’s goal is to give each patient a view of a sunny, peaceful place, providing a mental escape from the confines of the hospital room and a reminder that better days are ahead.
Last month, she began painting her LandEscapes directly on the walls of the Roswell Park Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, where ten murals were recently installed.
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The nine window murals and one 29-foot community mural were installed in treatment rooms to mark National Arts and Health Month in November.
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“Spending long periods of time in a hospital room can feel isolating,” Ms Wall said.
“These window paintings are intended to help patients not feel like they are confined in a sterile room, but can take an imaginary journey into nature.”
“It’s my way of sharing the hope that has helped me overcome my own struggles.”
Learn more about its mission and view all window paintings in visit their website-and watch his Kickstarter video below…
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