One of the first things you notice upon entering the Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building — besides the natural light and friendly faces that greet you — is the artwork.
Art in a health care setting can lessen stress and encourage wellness, especially pieces that are thoughtfully designed and chosen. With healing in mind, each floor of the new building on RUSH’s downtown Chicago campus is decorated with bright, captivating art that enhances the space for staff and visitors
"We had patients talk about the impact of artwork on their healing, which helped us select colors and artwork for the building,” says Patty Nedved, RN, MSN, associate vice president, clinical transformation officer. “A connection with nature in art has been found to bring a sense of calm to patients, so many of the pieces incorporate images from nature.”
Walking through the building — a destination for cancer, neurosciences and digestive diseases care — you will also see many homages to Chicago with artwork featured by local artists.
One of the most unique pieces of art in the building is a set of decorated ceramic cubes designed by local artist Kaiser Suidan. The cubes are a 3D installation that bring a bright and bold pop of color to the main lobby.
Another notable art installation, “The Sun Also Rises,” was created by RUSH University Children’s Hospital patients and hangs in the south concourse on the first floor. The mosaic, designed with help from Snow City Arts, illustrates the hope in a rising sun over Chicago.
“The hope,” Nedved says, “is the use of art and color will help promote continued healing.”
To view more of the artwork featured in the Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building, check out our interactive map.
