Client: Medical University of South Carolina, College of Nursing

Overview

The College of Nursing opened a beautiful new space and commissioned this grouping of sculptures to portray the history of nursing from the 1890s to today. Five bronze statues representing nursing in the 1890s, 1910s, 1940s, 1960s and the modern era of the 2000s prominently grace the table in the foyer of the College. Each figure or grouping helps remind viewers of the compassion and nurture nurses have steadfastly provided throughout the decades.

Goals

The goal for commissioning this sculpture grouping was to create a permanent installation of celebratory and educational artwork. Incorporating sculpture was essential to the vision of Dean Gail Stuart, who wanted to transform one of the oldest buildings on the historic campus, into a renovated space that "fully embraces [their] future as health care educators, researchers and providers" (quote from Dean Stuart).

Process

Charlie Pate of Pate Sculpture Studio collaborated with painter John Carroll Doyle to provide the art for the grand entrance to the building. The artists collaborated with Mrs. Marcia Falk, College of Nursing Advisory Board member, to create a permanent installation of celebratory and educational artwork, while a team of "architects, engineers, carpenters, interior designers, and landscapers worked tirelessly to bring Dean Gail Stuart’s vision of a state-of-the-art College of Nursing building to life” (Lifelines Magazine).