We are excited to share the culmination of a remarkable project at Hope Tower, where art has been seamlessly integrated into the Chapel, reflecting our mission, values, heritage, and budgetary considerations. This significant effort was spearheaded by Bevin England, Senior Philanthropy Officer at Covenant, and Debby Matheny from the Stahl company.
A Unique Chapel Design
At the heart of this project is the Chapel, featuring a unique circular design. A prominent Stonewall symbolizes Christ, and the altar cross is crafted from olive wood, a material rich with symbolism. This six-foot-tall olive wood cross harmonizes beautifully with custom stations of the cross, adding a profound touch to our sacred space.
A beautiful addition to the Chapel is a prayer tree, created by a local artist, which invites visitors and caregivers to place their prayer requests. This tree fosters a sense of community and reflection, with additional prayer trees strategically placed throughout our campus to extend this opportunity for spiritual connection.
The Chapel also includes a serene prayer garden, providing a tranquil space for contemplation.
Integrating Art and Mission
A key focus of the project was integrating watercolors that resonate with our mission and vision statements. One of the foundation-funded pieces is an impressive 30-foot-long panel, prominently displaying our mission, values, campaign donors, lifetime philanthropic partners, patient stories, and community service. This piece is strategically placed near Starbucks and the cafeteria for maximum visibility.
Also featured is an employee giving piece that highlights the contributions of caregivers through the Covenant Cares program and United Way, showcasing our collective commitment to service.
History and heritage panels celebrate our local and organizational history, featuring the Sisters of Saint Joseph and Providence, complemented by a forward-looking piece that rounds out the collection.
Extending the Watercolor Theme
The watercolor theme extends throughout the campus, including lighted columns in the visitor courtyard and donor recognition pieces on the upper floors. The atrium display is visually impactful from various angles, particularly from the second floor. Integration of Providence’s colors and mission/values signage enhances the overall design.
Acrylic panels, approximately three feet wide and four feet tall, prominently feature our mission and values along the corridor and in the registration area. The elevator lobby also reinforces the mission and watercolor theme on every floor.
Repurposing and Introducing Art
Art was repurposed whenever possible. In the warehouse, the team discovered a series of original paintings from the 90s, depicting the history of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. These six-foot-high pieces are complemented by accompanying narratives. Another notable find was a gold leaf on acrylic replica of the statue of the First Sisters of Saint Joseph, originally located at the mother house in California.
Throughout the building, a West Texas theme is prevalent. New art pieces were purchased to supplement the reused pieces, and murals were designed for visitor elevators on each floor, emphasizing the local theme. While repurposed art covered the first and second floors, the third and fourth patient floors required additional art purchases.
Incorporating art directly into patient rooms, the team utilized existing head walls and light fixtures, ensuring each room features unique designs. Custom-made Covenant Process pieces are hung in every patient room and throughout meeting spaces within the hospital.
Enhancing the Entrance and Pathways
The opening of Hope Tower brought about changes to the front entrance and path of travel. To address any confusion, color-coded towers with corresponding shapes were implemented, along with brightly colored walls near elevators and clear signage on the ground floor to guide visitors.
Achieving Cost Reductions and Enhancing Aesthetics
To achieve cost reductions, there was a focus on value engineering, refining the mobile and reusing existing art while introducing custom pieces for maximum impact. As a result, we reduced the original art budget from half a million dollars to $161,000. The savings allowed for custom elements, including the olive wood cross, Healing Garden sign, and Covenant Process pieces for patient rooms. Some new art was added to supplement the reused pieces, filling in gaps across the campus.
Existing reused art was reframed and hung, contributing to the overall aesthetic. Despite the budget cuts, the result is an impressive and beautiful building that reflects our mission and values.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you to everyone who participated in this transformative project. Your dedication and creativity have truly enhanced our space and mission, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for all who visit Hope Tower.