Uisce
—(2023)
Hospital Artwork
The sea can do craziness, it can do smooth,
it can lie down like silk breathing
or toss havoc shoreward; it can give
gifts and withhold all; it can rise, ebb, froth
like an incoming frenzy of fountains, or it can
sweet-talk entirely. As I can too,
and so, no doubt, can you, and you.
A Thousand Mornings by Mary Oliver
it can lie down like silk breathing
or toss havoc shoreward; it can give
gifts and withhold all; it can rise, ebb, froth
like an incoming frenzy of fountains, or it can
sweet-talk entirely. As I can too,
and so, no doubt, can you, and you.
A Thousand Mornings by Mary Oliver
Ripples of Hope in Healing Spaces
This project, commissioned for the oncology ward at Mater Private Dublin, aimed to infuse positivity and colour into a clinical environment. Inspired by the ward's unique architecture—a central nurse station surrounded by 14 patient bays of varying sizes—we created a series of artworks, titled Uisce (Irish for water), to help transform the space. The concept draws from the tranquil beauty of still waters and the metaphorical idea of ripples, symbolising how small gestures can have profound impacts.
This project, commissioned for the oncology ward at Mater Private Dublin, aimed to infuse positivity and colour into a clinical environment. Inspired by the ward's unique architecture—a central nurse station surrounded by 14 patient bays of varying sizes—we created a series of artworks, titled Uisce (Irish for water), to help transform the space. The concept draws from the tranquil beauty of still waters and the metaphorical idea of ripples, symbolising how small gestures can have profound impacts.
The artwork comprises colourful striped compositions uniquely designed for each patient bay, yet following a cohesive style. From the central nurses' station, all 14 pieces are visible, creating a continuous ribbon of colour encircling the room. Accompanying the set, two large square artworks welcome visitors at the ward's entrance.
With a warm, life-affirming colour palette, the artwork encourages patients, families, and staff to look up and around, offering moments of visual respite. The interconnected nature of the series reinforces the unit's role as a supportive, unified space, while acknowledging the diverse backgrounds and stories of everyone who enters.
Uisce demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform clinical spaces into comforting environments—addressing both physical and emotional needs. Through carefully considered colour and design choices, the project aims to support emotional wellbeing, offer inspiration, and remind all who enter of life's vibrancy beyond hospital walls.
