The Onassis Hospital in Athens is breaking new ground by integrating art and healing, creating a unique environment where patients and visitors can find solace and inspiration amidst medical care.
The hospital has adorned its spaces with masterpieces by renowned Greek artists, transforming waiting areas and common spaces into calming sanctuaries of creativity.
The hospital, which encompasses the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, the Transplant Center, and the Onassis Pediatric Hospital, features works from the Onassis Collection that focus on the human body and evoke themes of hope and resilience.
Sculptures, paintings, and installations by artists like Yiannis Pappas, George Zongolopoulos, and Christina Morali now grace the hospital's halls, offering moments of reflection and beauty.
"The Onassis Hospital is a modern-day Asclepieion," explains Professor Ioannis Boletis, President of the Onassis Hospital, referencing the ancient Greek healing sanctuaries that integrated art and medicine.
"We believe that art plays a vital role in the healing process, offering solace and fostering a sense of well-being."
Antony S. Papadimitriou, President of the Onassis Foundation, emphasizes the holistic vision behind this initiative.
"Health is a matter of culture," he states, highlighting the foundation's commitment to enhancing healthcare through both medical innovation and artistic enrichment.
The integration of art into the Onassis Hospital's design creates a unique environment that nurtures both body and soul.
Each artwork serves as a "window to hope," offering a moment of respite and reminding patients and visitors of the power of art to inspire and uplift during challenging times.