The Orillia Museum of Art and History (OMAH) and Mariposa House Hospice are pleased to announce the launch of their partnership program “Art at the Hospice.”
The hospice building, which opened in February 2021, features a variety of ideal spaces to display original artwork by local artists including the family room, reception area and resident care hallway.
Soon after the hospice opened, representatives from both organizations met to begin dreaming up what a partnership might look like.
As of October 2021, five original pieces, ranging in price from $250 to $5,000, are now on display and available for purchase. Local artists Stephanie Stanton, Kathryn Kaiser, and Robyn Rennie are currently represented, and pieces by Will McGarvey and Charles Pachter are expected soon.
Residents, family members, friends, volunteers, and staff are now able to enjoy the addition of these colourful pieces which enhances the comfortable, homelike atmosphere at the hospice.
The first sale was recorded earlier this month – a piece titled “Ephemeral” by Robyn Rennie. The artist has donated the proceeds to the hospice and will receive a charitable tax receipt in return.
When asked about her involvement in the project, Rennie indicated that she could not imagine spending her final days staring at a blank wall.
“I would want something meaningful to contemplate, or something that made me feel happy when I looked at it,” said Rennie. “As the artist, I hope to give a gift to someone as they prepare to leave this world – an embrace. I want them to know that I care.”
To learn more, or to see the pieces of art that are currently available, please follow OMAH and MHH on social media or call the hospice reception desk at 705-558-2888, extension 201.
A guide can be sent via email upon request, or a print copy can be picked up in person by appointment.