New Mural by Emma Kohlmann Unveiled at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue
NYC Health + Hospitals just revealed an exciting new mural as part of its Community Mural Project, which is likely the largest program of its kind since the 1930s. The mural, titled Before There was Asphalt / Gardens are Cities, is located in the South Lobby of Bellevue Hospital. Artist Emma Kohlmann worked closely with hospital staff and the community to create this piece.
This mural is one of more than 50 created since the project started in 2019. A book featuring the project’s first phase, titled Healing Walls: New York City Health + Hospitals Community Mural Project 2019-2021, showcases this rich collaboration. You can also view the murals online through Bloomberg Connects. This particular piece was supported by the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund.
Before There was Asphalt / Gardens are Cities features vibrant native plants, imagining each as a tiny world. The mural illustrates an urban ecosystem, bringing nature indoors. It highlights how overgrown spaces can hold mysteries of life and change.
Plants like Milkweed and Great Blue Lobelia are not just beautiful; they support local wildlife. For instance, Milkweed is crucial for Monarch butterflies, which travel thousands of miles during migration. These butterflies symbolize the immigrant experience — facing challenges but also representing resilience and adaptability.
The mural also includes various birds, each symbolizing the diverse backgrounds of Bellevue Hospital’s staff. For example, the Hispaniolan Trogon represents the Caribbean and the European Robin connects to Europe and North Africa. These birds mirror the hospital’s rich tapestry of cultures, emphasizing that our origins shape who we are.
According to Laurie Tisch, president of the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, the mural embodies the power of art in healing. She expressed that it resonates with the community, reflecting the immigrant stories of patients and staff while providing comfort and beauty in vulnerable moments.
Larissa Trinder, Assistant VP of Arts in Medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals, shared that studies show natural imagery can lower stress and improve emotional well-being for patients and staff. This mural brings that science to life in a stunning way, supporting community resilience.
As Dr. Eric Wei, CEO of Bellevue Hospital, noted, Kohlmann’s artwork not only beautifies the space but also fosters a connection with nature. The mural enables patients, visitors, and staff to engage with the world outside, creating a sense of unity and artistic expression.
Emma Kohlmann, the artist, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Bellevue. She mentioned that the mural is an imagined garden, representing a blend of native plants and birds that reflect the essential richness of the community.
The Community Mural Project also addresses another important issue: healthcare worker burnout. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified mental health issues across New York City, particularly in low-income and immigrant communities. Initiatives like this aim to relieve stress and foster collaboration among staff, crucial in today’s challenging environment.
Historically, public murals have played a vital role in community engagement and resilience. The 1930s Works Progress Administration commissioned murals to uplift public spaces during difficult times. This legacy continues today, providing a platform for local artists and addressing the emotional needs of individuals in healthcare settings.
The arts play an essential role in supporting mental health and wellness in communities. Organizations like the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund continue to foster these connections through their initiatives. As hospitals integrate art into their environments, they’re not just offering care; they’re nurturing a holistic healing experience for everyone involved.
For more on NYC Health + Hospitals’ Arts in Medicine initiatives, visit their [official website](http://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/artsinmedicine).
