Indigenous art at Vancouver Coastal Health
Creating safer spaces is a critical part of the work we do to support Indigenous clients, patients and families to feel comfortable, seen and valued. It also supports our Indigenous Cultural Safety Pillar - our commitment to reconciliation and learning, and providing the best care informed by the history and culture of Indigenous Peoples.
The assertion of culture through art is an important contributor to the wellness and health of Indigenous communities. Images like murals that depict the strength and resilience of Indigenous People can improve the patient, family and client experience in all our health-care sites.
Informed by community engagement with First Nations and community partners and in following In Plain Sight Report – Recommendation 10 , we have unveiled many Indigenous art projects throughout the Vancouver Coastal Health region.
One Heart, One Mind
By Diamond Point, Musqueam at Downtown Eastside Youth Outreach Centre
We Show Up for Each Other
By Ryan Hughes, Snuneymuxw First Nation at Downtown Eastside Youth Outreach Centre
Spirit of the Youth
By Chris Sparrow, Musqueam at Downtown Eastside Youth Outreach Centre
Colours of Family
By Darryl Blyth, Musqueam at Richmond Hospital Cancer Care Clinic
Sunrise and Sunset
By Chief Kwakwee Baker, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw at Adanac Park Lodge
Spirit of the Four Seasons
By Sina̓mḵin – Jody Broomfield, Squamish Nation at City Centre UPCC
Strong Rooted Community
By Olivia George, Tsleil-Waututh Nation at Vancouver General Hospital Willow Pavilion
Rainbow (Red Tailed Hawk)
By Ben Houstie, Heiltsuk Nation at Vancouver General Hospital Joseph and Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre
Female House Post and Male House Post
By Musqueam artists Thomas Cannell and Brent Sparrow at Vancouver General Hospital Dogwood Care Home
Soar; Care; Calm
By Austin Aan’yas Harry, Squamish and Namgis Nations at Burns, Trauma, and High Acuity Unit (BTHAU) at Vancouver General Hospital
Squamish Nation House Post
By carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) at Vancouver General Hospital Diamond Family Health Centre
Musqueam Nation House Post
By carver Brent Sparrow Jr. at Vancouver General Hospital Diamond Family Health Centre
Tsleil-Waututh Nation House Post
By carver Skokaylem (Zachary George) at Vancouver General Hospital Diamond Family Health Centre
Call for artists
If you are interested in learning more about the installation of Indigenous artwork at a VCH facility, please contact the VCH Community Engagement team at ce@vch.ca.
Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting your creative journey, we invite you to review our open Calls for Artists and submit an expression of interest in relevant opportunities.
Learn more about our current opportunities and the application process.