HSC Children's Hospital Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders Ward Art Project

Children's Hospital Foundation of Manitoba invites artists to create artwork for installation on the childhood cancer and blood disorders ward at HSC Children's Hospital. Up to 20 artists will be selected to participate in this healing art project. The goal is to transform 15 unique inpatient units and 5 adjacent spaces into vibrant, healing environments that spark comfort, joy and imagination. Selected artworks will be professionally printed on durable hospital-grade vinyl and applied directly to 2 or 3 walls in each inpatient unit. Horizontal orientation is preferred.

All artwork should embody the "Let's Make Anything Possible" theme, celebrating childhood and nurturing the spirit of play. Artwork should inspire boundless dreams, create a sense of adventure, nurture hope and optimism, and encourage playfulness. Artists are encouraged to incorporate themes of nature, animals, movement, imagination, play, friendship, family, and possibility that resonate across cultures. Each space will be designed with diversity, equity, inclusivity and reconciliation at its heart, with particular attention to the representation of Indigenous cultures and communities. With 60% of patients being First Nations, Métis, or Inuit children, artwork should respect and welcome all cultural backgrounds without appropriating specific cultural symbols.

Artists must submit digital artwork suitable for large-format vinyl printing. Designs must incorporate at least 3 colors from the provided CHFM color palette (Primary Purple, Accent Red, Healthcare Teal, Warm Orange, Sunshine Yellow, Supporting Blue) and maintain vibrancy under institutional fluorescent lighting. Avoid medical imagery, frightening elements, cartoon characters, branded logos, seasonal designs, religious symbols, overly complex compositions, and overstimulating visuals. Selected artists will receive $3,000 compensation and agree to authorize reprinting of their artwork if damage occurs within the first 10 years of installation. Proposals are due January 9, 2026 at 4:00pm CST. Selection decisions will be communicated January 23, 2026. For questions, contact [email protected].