Local artists with connections to Cessnock and the Hunter region are invited to contribute to the $138 million Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment, with expressions of interest (EOIs) for art commissions now open.
The Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment will deliver a new, contemporary, two-storey acute health services building, enhancing and modernising health services for the community.
Artworks will be featured in key spaces throughout the new health facility, helping create welcoming and uplifting public health spaces to support clinical and wellbeing outcomes for patients, staff and visitors.
The artworks delivered as part of the Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment Arts in Health Program will celebrate the rich history and diversity of the Cessnock region. Submissions are invited from both established and emerging artists, with expressions of interest also encouraged from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, organisations and collaborative groups.
Opportunities include large-scale wall artworks and curated wall-hung pieces for clinical corridors to create engaging and inspiring spaces for patients, visitors and staff.
The new acute services building will deliver enhanced clinical services including:
- an expanded emergency department
- operating theatre and day surgery spaces
- two new inpatient wards with single or double rooms and ensuites
- a new sterilising services unit
- a modern medical imaging service
- a fully equipped pharmacy
Construction is underway and the new hospital building is expected to be completed in 2027.
Expressions of interest for art commissions close at 5:00pm on Friday, 14 November.
To register interest, and for further information, visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/cessnock-hospital-redevelopment.
Artists with questions or who require support with their application are encouraged to contact HI-Arts@health.nsw.gov.au or call 0422 458 622.
The Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment is being delivered in partnership with Hunter New England Local Health District, Health Infrastructure and builder Hansen Yuncken.
To learn more about the project, visit nsw.gov.au/cessnock-hospital-redevelopment
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 Framework recognises and provides guidance for integrating the arts into our facilities and healthcare.
Amanda Bock, Executive Director, Rural and Regional, Health Infrastructure said:
“The Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment is a transformative project that will deliver enhanced health services for Cessnock and surrounding communities.
“We know art plays a vital role in creating spaces that support wellbeing and recovery. By incorporating local creativity into the new Cessnock Hospital and celebrating the region’s history and culture, we’re building a facility that reflects the community it serves.
“This is a unique opportunity for local artists to contribute to a lasting legacy that will enhance the experience of patients, carers, and healthcare workers every day.”
John Barnard-Richardson, Executive Director, Infrastructure, Planning and Sustainability, Hunter New England Local Health District said:
“Our staff are excited to see the redevelopment progressing and becoming a reality. We’re committed to continuing our work with the community to ensure the new health facility meets local health needs now and well into the future.”
Image credit: Artwork by Kevin Vo at Liverpool Hospital.