Art, well-being and community at the heart of new Nepean Hospital building
Vibrant artworks inspired by the landscapes, stories and communities of the Nepean and Blue Mountains region have been installed across Nepean Hospital’s new clinical building, as construction enters its final phase.
The new artworks have been installed as part of Stage 2 of the more than $1 billion Nepean Hospital Redevelopment and will complement the new and enhanced health services being delivered for the local community.
The redevelopment will expand critical healthcare services for the region including an adult intensive care unit, paediatric ward, medical imaging and molecular imaging services, renal dialysis, education and training facilities and clinical support services.
A range of art installations feature across the new seven-storey building in public spaces, clinical areas, paediatric facilities and the building façade. The artworks celebrate local identity while helping create inclusive culturally safe environments that support wellbeing, connection and recovery.
Arts in health experiences are an integral part of all NSW Health infrastructure projects, reflecting each region’s dynamic community, which will aim to create a welcoming environment for patients, families and staff.
Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the Nepean region, the artworks reference the Blue Mountains landscape, the Nepean River, Dharug culture, stories contributed by local community members, native flora and fauna.
Among the works is ‘Blue Haze’, a suspended glass sculpture by Sydney artist, Louise Zhang. The work is featured in the new atrium and captures the iconic blue haze experience of the Blue Mountains through sweeping forms and layers of colour.
Proud Dharug artist Jamie (Mugudun) Eastwood has created a series of significant artworks inspired by Country, including interpretations of Yandahai (the Nepean River), traditional healing practices and the Garad (Black Cockatoo), bringing Aboriginal stories and cultural knowledge into the heart of the new hospital.
A collection of abstract landscape works by artist Zoe Sernack is featured on the interior walls throughout the building, drawing on the colours, textures and rhythms of the Nepean region, creating calming and reflective spaces.
Award-winning artist Vipoo Srivilasa has contributed a series of uplifting works, including community-designed superhero mosaics on the building’s external stairs, artworks for the paediatric unit and ceramic sculptures on display in the main entry atrium, encouraging imagination and moments of discovery for young patients and families.
An Aboriginal Mudyin (Family) Centre near the main entry will provide a culturally safe space for Aboriginal patients and families, while improved pathways, campus connections and wayfinding will make it easier to access services across the hospital campus.
Construction is on track for completion later this year, with services expected to transition into the new facility progressively in 2027.
The Health and the Arts Framework 2024-2032 highlights the role of the arts in providing patients, staff and communities with positive experiences within healthcare settings. The arts play a significant role in complementing the experience of care.
The Framework recognises this impact across the NSW Health system, integrating the arts to support key health challenges such as workforce strategies, Aboriginal health, aged care and mental health.