Collie artwork salutes healthy interest in history

Friday, 9 September 2016

• Percent for Art piece commissioned for Collie Health Service
• Renowned public artist Jahne Rees to showcase local themes
• $7.8 million hospital upgrade made possible by Royalties For Regions 

Acclaimed public artist Jahne Rees will reflect local history and wildlife themes in a major artwork commissioned under the State Government's Percent for Art Scheme, as part of the Collie Health Service refurbishment.

Announcing the commission today, Health and Culture and the Arts Minister John Day said new Western Australian research had highlighted how WA public and private hospitals were increasingly using the arts in clinical settings to improve health education and outcomes for patients.

"Jahne Rees has an impressive track record, having undertaken a series of successful public art commissions over the past 15 years," Mr Day said.

"His recent works include a sculpture at St John of God Hospital in Midland and pieces in Mandurah and Maylands. Jahne will create this entry statement artwork in collaboration with Liam Cole, a builder with a wealth of experience."

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said art and artists had an important role in improving the quality of public infrastructure and the integration of Jahne Rees' artwork would be appreciated by the community.

"Mr Rees will create an iconic but functional entry statement piece that is both welcoming and inspirational," Mr Redman said.

"His artwork will reflect Collie's timber, rail and coal history and also reference the local red-tailed cockatoo, by incorporating the red and orange colours found in their feathers."

The $7.8 million Collie Health Service redevelopment is part of the Liberal National Government's $500 million investment in the Southern Inland Health Initiative, made possible by the Royalties for Regions program.

Fact File

• The State Government's Percent for Art Scheme employs Western Australian artists to deliver exciting works for major new public buildings including schools, police stations, and health services - http://www.dca.wa.gov.au/percentforart
• The Southern Inland Health Initiative's $300 million capital works program is the largest undertaken by the WA Country Health Service, with new builds and upgrades to 37 hospitals and health services in the Wheatbelt, South-West, Great Southern and Mid-West -http://www.health.wa.gov.au/southerninland