My role included identifying suitable locations within the already constructed building to conducting a national call for artists, and working carefully with each artist to ensure the art work resonate with patients, caregivers, and staff alike. The artworks are not just visually appealing; they are designed to engage multiple senses and provide a calming influence in high-stress environments.  

The interactive and kinetic artworks have become focal points within the pavilion, sparking conversations and providing therapeutic benefits. Artists also developed projects that invited communities to participate in the content of the artworks or engage with them over time. The pavilion's concierges, who are trained about the art program, report that visitors frequently comment on the art, and many request tours to learn more.

The facility’s website is a way to tour the artwork you may not have a chance to see in person.  Commissioned artists include Deborah Aschheim, Amy Stacey Curtis, Adam Frank, Lori Hepner, Shohei Katayama, Kipp Kobayashi, Shervone Neckles, and Susan Narduli.  Each artist’s page includes an interviews edited by Rugged Angel Productions.

Artworks purchased for clinical areas include works by Nancy Blum, Ron Donahue, Valerie Lueth, Patricia Maurides, Laura Jean McLaughlin, Njaimeh Njie, Errol Mobuto Reynolds, Ivette Spradlin and Lenore Thomas, and Jared Enrique Quinteros.

Special thanks to Jennifer McGregor and Nadine Wasserman who were part of my planning and artist selection team.

This project was fueled by a passionate and dedicated art committee who were true collaborators and thought partners throughout the process.  

Art Committee Members 

• José-Alain Sahel, MD, Director, UPMC Vision Institute, Art Committee Co-Chair

• Gwendolyn Sowa, MD, PhD, Director, UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Art Committee Co-Chair

• Michael J. Chiappetta, Director of Construction 

• Laura Fisher, Vice President and Director, Eden Hall Foundation 

• Julie Hecker, Vice President of Operations, UPMC Mercy

• Melissa Lee, Associate, Strategic Product Management

• Gretchen Mendoza, Vice President, UPMC Enterprises

• Ashli Molinero, Director, UPMC Disabilities Resource Center

• Colin Prensky, MD, Ophthalmologist, UPMC Vision Institute 

• Joseph Shields, Senior Project Manager, Construction

• William Smith, DO, Director, Low Vision Service, UPMC Vision Institute 

• Holly Stants, OT, Occupational Therapy Team Leader

• Valerie Statkoske, VP, Mission Effectiveness, Ethics and Volunteer Services, UPMC Mercy

• Renee Piechocki, Art Consultant

Artist Selection Committee Members

• Eric Crosby, Director, Carnegie Mellon Museum of Art

• Dan Leers, Curator, Carnegie Museum of Art

• Sabreena Miller, GBBN Architects 

• Sylvia Rhor Samaniego, PhD, Curator, Frick Fine Art Center, University of Pittsburgh

• Lenore Thomas, Chair, University of Pittsburgh Department of Studio Arts

• Nancy Washington, PhD, Eye and Ear Foundation of Pittsburgh