Environment
Environment is both the physical space and the impact that engaging in arts activities can have on the atmosphere of a place.
Hospitals are austere places - hospitals are not a destination of choice. Patients and visitors in healthcare institutions are for the most part, reluctant visitors. Incorporating an arts program - visual, performing and literary arts - into these institutions can transform them from austere places of medical care into a place of healing. 
Hands-on arts activities, music performances, artworks and site-specific art can brighten hospital spaces, provide distraction for patients and visitors, assist in personalizing the austere environment. In addition the presence of art communicates to the patient and the visitor that the staff are committed to enhancing their stay. In transforming an austere clinic environment into one that is humane and encourages well-being, patients feel cared for. It can also bring a sense of community if patients and staff are engaged in the activity or the selection of the art.
A Collaboration between: Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Incorporating the National Children’s Hospital
Tallaght Community Arts Centre
1 – 5 November, 2004
The Environmental Alterations -
First Patient
Phase I – Ruttle Ward
The first stage of First Patient involved a redesigning of many environmental elements of Ruttle Ward, the neurology ward, within the hospital. The concept was to alter an austere healthcare setting into an inviting humane and healing environment.
The objective of creating a Memory Lane within the hospital is threefold:
To showcase some of the memorabilia from the three base hospitals to reflect their histories.
To assist patients and visitors with way finding which in turn will lower their stress. This is part of the First Patient projects aims.
To enhance the hospital environment for patients, visitors and staff.
In 2007 as part of the Hospital’s “Patient First Project” the windows opposite The Meath Memorial Garden were partially covered with images selected from the Meath Archives to help the public finding their way in the Hospital. New chairs and tables were installed in this area to allow people to stop and rest and this area was named “Meath Court”.
