A new Kaiser Permanente four-story state-of-the-art medical building will soon open its doors to members. However, in many ways, the community has already been invited inside. A look at the walls, covered in 120 pieces of local, limited edition, original artwork, is one way to see the community’s strong presence in this building. The building features art work from 13 local artists, truly representing the diversity of the local art community.
“It’s a privilege to showcase the outstanding artistic talent from this community in our facility,” says Georgina Garcia, senior vice president, area manager of Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles. “Each piece of artwork was carefully selected to reflect the rich diversity and unique spirit of this community.”
While art can be decorative, it can also be very meaningful. “Art plays an important role in the healing process, offering moments of beauty, calm and reflection for patients, visitors and staff alike,” says Jane Thompson, an art consultant who worked on the Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw project.
To support a calming environment, the artwork incorporates nature, familiar local imagery, textures and color that enhance the architecture and interior design throughout this facility.
Additionally, each floor has a theme to best complement the medical services offered in that area. “This coordinated effort is very patient-centered and will enhance the overall care experience for our members,” says Erique Emel, M.D., physician-in-charge of the Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw Medical Offices.
For example, the third floor, which hosts the Dermatology, Pediatrics and Obstetrics/Gynecology departments, features bright images of people as well as local flora, which is highlighted by limited edition photographic images. Many of those photographs were taken in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw area.
The art featured in the waiting areas and exam rooms was also very thoughtfully selected. The waiting rooms feature large-scale limited edition giclée canvases that minimize reflection to let in the natural light in these areas. Many of the exam rooms feature soothing images of nature and water imagery to put patients at ease during their visit.
For more information on the Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw Medical Offices, please visit kp.org/baldwinhillscrenshaw
“From the inside out, this building was designed with the community in mind. We look forward to welcoming new and existing members into our facility in mid-September,” Garcia says.
