Renowned local artist to feature in new building

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A large artwork made of thousands of individual light reflectors – like those found on bicycle wheels – will be one of the major artworks for the new precinct.

Locally based, internationally renowned artist Dani Marti has been commissioned to create the artwork that will be installed in a public area between the new seven-storey acute services building and the existing hospital.

Integrating art into health facilities is so important as they promote healing and provide a more positive experience for patients, staff and visitors. 

Artist Dani Marti said the work titled ‘Summer Fruits’ will use colour, light, reflection and scale to bring energy and joy to the space.

“The title invites viewers to reflect on their own memories - the act of enjoying juicy sweet fruit on a hot summer day - offering a brief escape and reprieve from the hospital environment,” said Mr Marti.

“Just like the many reflectors that come together to make up the artwork, my hope is to pay tribute to the many people who work together at the hospital to care for our community,” he said.

Julie Tait, Executive General Manager of John Hunter Hospital said the new piece will continue the role that art has played at the hospital for almost 25 years.

“The art for our hospital is about much more than what will hang on walls,” she said.

“It’s part of the heart of the hospital and means patients, visitors and staff walk into an environment that feels naturally warm – and that is exactly what this artwork will achieve.”

The arts strategy for the redevelopment began during the early planning stages of the project, and many workshops   
involving staff, local artists and Aboriginal stakeholders have all helped to shape its direction.

This commission was competitively tendered, supported by the project’s Arts Working Group with representatives from John Hunter Hospital’s clinical, mental health and Aboriginal staff along with infrastructure experts and the Director of Newcastle’s Art Gallery, Lauretta Morton. 
Visit here to learn more about the strategy for integrating art into the precinct.