Beaufort Memorial Foundation project aims to bring healing effects of Lowcountry art into new Bluffton Hospital
Beaufort Memorial
The Beaufort Memorial Foundation is blending art and healthcare through a new initiative designed to bring the healing power of local creativity into the new Bluffton Community Hospital.
The program, “Heart of Healing,” will feature artwork by Lowcountry artists displayed on Community Art Walls throughout the new Bluffton hospital, according to a news release from the Beaufort Memorial Foundation.
The goal? Create a welcoming, community-centered environment that supports patient healing, staff well-being and a deeper connection to the region that Beaufort Memorial serves.
“Beaufort Memorial is a community health system, and this hospital has ‘community’ in its name,” said Kim Yawn, Beaufort Memorial Foundation Chief Development Officer. “Through the power of art, we want to create a space that feels welcoming, meaningful and connected to the people we serve. We’re excited to partner with local artists to enhance how we deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.”
The Foundation is collaborating with EMROSE projects, an art and creative placemaking consulting organization led by Bluffton resident Maria Hooper – who also serves on the Town of Bluffton’s Public Art Committee – as a curatorial and advisory partner for the “Healing Arts” program.
The Foundation is now accepting submissions from Lowcountry artists aged 18 and older. Artists may submit up to three existing pieces for consideration. The theme, “Community Well-Being,” encourages works of art inspired by nature’s restorative properties, local history, human connection and non-denominational spiritual or meditative imagery.
Two-dimensional works in any medium are welcome, along with photographs of three-dimensional pieces. Selected artwork will be professionally, locally scanned and reproduced by Beaufort Memorial. Additional guidelines, including size requirements and licensing information, are available at BeaufortMemorial.org/Foundation.
The submission deadline is March 31, 2026.
Currently under construction at the corner of Bluffton and Buckwalter Parkways, the 28-bed, three-story Bluffton Community Hospital is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 and open to patients in early 2027. Artwork from the “Heart of Healing” program will be displayed in clinical and transitional spaces, such as surgery corridors, waiting rooms, staff breakrooms and other employee areas.
Research shows that incorporating art into healthcare settings can reduce stress, support recovery, improve communication and foster a stronger sense of human connection. Through this program, participating artists will play a direct role in community healing while helping create a hospital environment rooted in comfort, reflection and belonging.
The Beaufort Memorial Foundation plans to expand the “Heart of Healing” program to additional facilities in the future, extending its benefits throughout the health system.