Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the HSC Foundation helped bring new artwork to HSC’s Sexual Assault/Intimate Partner Violence Program
Winnipeg-based mural artist Justine Proulx stands next to her painting that was recently installed in HSC’s Sexual Assault/Intimate Partner Violence Program space.
HSC’s Sexual Assault/Intimate Partner Violence Program (SA/IPV) is a space where trauma and recovery meet. A dedicated team of specially trained health care professionals work tirelessly to provide the survivors of sexual assault or intimate partner violence with compassionate care, support, and medical attention.
For the team members behind the SA/IPV program, the care they provide extends beyond clinical procedures—it’s about creating a nurturing environment that supports survivors during one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives.
“We really wanted to try and reduce the clinical feel and cultivate a sense of calm and peace,” says Trisha Knight, RN, Director of HSC’s Adult Emergency Department and the SA/IPV program.
After learning of the need, Glynis Corkal, Development Officer with the HSC Foundation, was quick to connect with Kimi Guilbert, a local Shoppers Drug Mart store associate, who has been a longtime supporter of HSC and local women’s health initiatives. Guilbert generously donated $2,000 to allow HSC to commission a local artist to create new artwork for the SA/IPV suite.
Winnipeg-based Métis tattooist and mural artist Justine Proulx was selected to design and paint a large wall installation and several ceiling tiles in the examination suite. Proulx, Guilbert, and members of the Shoppers Drug Mart team recently stopped by HSC’s SA/IPV to view the installation.
(L to R): Justine Proulx, Winnipeg mural artist; Trisha Knight, Director of the SAIPV program; Drea Pollard, Nurse Educator with HSC’s SA/IPV program; Glynis Corkal, Development Officer with the HSC Foundation; and Kimi Guilbert, Shoppers Drug Mart Store Associate and generous donor.
“I really wanted this piece to be a lot about courage, hope, and community,” Proulx says, adding her style of art explores the connections and relationships among spirit, animals, nature, and people.
The new painting hangs in the general sitting area of the SA/IPV clinic.
“Bears represent courage in the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and I think that is something that a lot of people coming into this space really need,” Proulx adds. “Bears are also something that I find shows up a lot in dreams and visions. They are usually a guide or protector, especially the Mother bear. They’re the embodiment of protection and maternal energy.”
Proulx’s artwork now covers several ceiling tiles in the SA/IPV clinic’s examination suite.
According to SA/IPV clinic staff, the artwork is already making an impact on patients.
“The difference that this renovation is bringing to survivors, and even to us as staff who are in this space every day, is huge. For some, it’s a conversation starter, a distraction, and helps to ease them into the start of their recovery process. It is a lot more calming and peaceful. We are very appreciative,” Knight adds.
Thanks to the generosity of donors like Guilbert and Shoppers Drug Mart, the HSC Foundation can embrace local talent like Proulx to make a meaningful impact on patient care and comfort on the HSC campus.
For staff wishing to explore installation of art and murals in their area at HSC, please contact the HSC Art Committee at [email protected].
To continue making a positive impact on the thousands of patients who rely on HSC annually, please consider donating to the HSC Foundation. To make a gift now, visit our website, or call us at 204-515-5612 or toll-free at 1-800-679-8493.
By Jen Golletz
