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New mural supports patient care at Invermere ER
Interior Health recently collaborated with local artist Kelsey Van Raay to complete a new mural in Invermere and District Hospital’s emergency department.
The mural was completed on January 29. It was painted on the ceiling and door of one of the patient care spaces within the Emergency Department.
This room is primarily used for patients experiencing mental health concerns needing a quiet, non-stimulating space to be treated and cared for. The goal of the mural was to create a serene and calming environment for patients to help foster healing.
“My intent with my art has always been to connect people to our natural world and inspire them to appreciate nature and it’s healing effects. When I was asked to paint a mural within such a unique space, I jumped at the opportunity to create something that would provide a calming space for patients in need,” said artist Kelsey Van Raay.
The project was generously funded and organized by Dr. JoyAnne Krupa, who was the successful recipient of the 2024 Early Career Leadership Award for Innovation in Opioid Use Disorder Care. The award included a one-time donation in support of clients with Mental Health and Substance Use disorders. Dr. Krupa is passionate about the inclusion of art in hospital spaces and the benefits this can bring to patients.
“Anyone who has been a patient themselves knows how vulnerable that time can feel. This is particularly true for people who present to our emergency room in a mental health crisis. We know from research that physical environments significantly affect patient experience and recovery, yet the sad beige walls in our mental health room have not set the tone of a healing space,” said Dr. JoyAnne Krupa.
“I hope that the transformation can help people feel uplifted in difficult times. There is more work to be done, however, and we need to continue to build community partnerships for further projects. With the creativity of artists in the East Kootenay and community support for funding, we hope to continue making our hospital a more restorative and vibrant space.”
The Invermere and District Hospital is a Level 1 community hospital in the East Kootenay health service area. The hospital offers services including acute care, laboratory, and 24-hour emergency services.
Lead image: A mural on the ceiling of the Invermere ER. Interior Health photos
Interior Health
