CASE STUDY

VISTA – Prairie-Inspired Art for a Pediatric Lounge

 

Project Overview

VISTA: Prairie is a 5’ x 3’ glass artwork designed for a pediatric lounge in a Midwestern hospital. Featuring a graphic abstraction of prairie grasses and wildflowers, the piece integrates nature into the healthcare environment, reinforcing the connection between art, restoration, and healing.

VISTA: prairie 5’ x 2.5’ glass inlay with concrete textures c Heather Hancock 2023

Concept & Inspiration

Inspired by the region’s native landscape, VISTA: Prairie captures the movement and rhythm of prairie grasses and wildflowers in a dynamic horizontal format. By abstracting local foliage, the piece supports placemaking, grounding the hospital’s interior in its surrounding environment.

Execution & Design Approach

  • Material & Texture: Hand-cut glass and layered textures create a visually engaging surface with depth and dimension.

  • Color & Composition: The artwork complements the pediatric lounge’s playful color scheme and inviting atmosphere, adding an element of energy and warmth.

  • Integration & Scale: Sized to fit seamlessly within the space, the horizontal layout enhances the lounge’s design while maintaining an engaging and approachable presence for young patients.

Visual & Emotional Impact

  • Brings a sense of nature indoors, supporting a calming and restorative environment.

  • Adds a playful and dynamic element that aligns with the pediatric setting.

  • Enhances the hospital’s connection to its regional landscape through abstracted local flora.

Key Takeaways

This project demonstrates how nature-inspired abstraction can enrich healthcare spaces, making them more welcoming and engaging. VISTA: Prairie merges art and environment to create a meaningful, site-specific installation that fosters a sense of place and comfort for young patients and their families.

Let’s craft a statement piece that connects art, space, and story—reach out to start the conversation!

detail VISTA: prairie 5’ x 2.5’ glass inlay with concrete textures c Heather Hancock 2023

detail VISTA: prairie 5’ x 2.5’ glass inlay with concrete textures c Heather Hancock 2023

VISTA: prairie 5’ x 2.5’ glass inlay with concrete textures c Heather Hancock 2023