What other hospitals have done art initiatives- do they have policies? If so what are some examples?
Most hospitals have a foundation that is responsible for charitable donations. Art is considered a charitable donation and qualifies for a tax benefit through a receipt. The Hospital Foundation usually handles the art donations and the collection. For example, the VGH and UBC hospitals have a joint foundation that launched an art program in 2000 and now boasts of an impressive collection of over 1200 works donated by local artists and collectors. Many prestigious artists are named in the VGH/UBC collection and the value of the collection grows over time through the donation of artworks. To an artist, it is of high value to be in an art collection and it is important to understand the protocols and display requirements when accepting art.
The VGH/UBC hospital foundation partners with Emily Carr University on the Idea Art Award, an annual contest for Emily Carr students and recent graduates. The grand prize is 5000 and the winner’s artwork is place in the hospital and becomes part of the collection. The value and function of their work is increased when placed into a health care context.
Example: Lions Gate Hospital Foundation
All art donations have to be approved by an Art Program Committee and the donor is responsible for framing and transportation of the work to the hospital.
