Client: Children's Hospital and Medical Center

Overview

In 2021, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska added a new wing which added another 500,000 square feet to the existing 250,000 square feet. The new addition includes a helipad, more than 70 patient rooms, a solarium, cafeteria, and family lounge areas. I was approached by the board of directors and hospital donors to create a series of bronze, brown bear sculptures to be placed around the hospital. The bears act as wayfinding markers around the hospital and create a unique, interactive experience for patients, visitors, and staff. The bears are placed in main locations around the hospital, but a few are tucked in “hiding” places, making a fun easter-egg game for patients to find.

Goals

It is my goal for this sculpture installation that the bears enhance the environment by adding a sense of joy, playfulness, warmth, and comfort. I hope that in the many years to come, the bears represent the nurturing care that is provided at Children's Hospital and Medical Center.