Case Study
Gold Lining
GOLD LINING
Samaritan Hospital
Samaritan Hospital - Troy, NY // September 2025
In its 127-year history, Samaritan Hospital had never integrated public art into its clinical environments. The hospital aimed to introduce a restorative visual intervention within the Mental Illness Chemical Addictions (MICA) Ward, one of its most isolated and emotionally complex units, with the goal of supporting patient well-being and staff morale. I worked closely with program directors, clinicians, and staff, spending extended time in the unit to understand its rhythms, challenges, and emotional needs. The resulting nature-based mural was designed specifically for this context, using evidence-backed imagery known to reduce stress, promote calm, and support emotional regulation. The mural communicates care, dignity, and safety in a space often defined by restriction and isolation. The project established a new precedent for Samaritan, demonstrating how visual care can function as a meaningful component of trauma-informed, patient-centered healthcare.
Post Results:
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Enhanced sense of safety, care, and stability within a high-acuity unit
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Increased staff morale and cross-department engagement during creation
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Model for integrating art into future healthcare and grant-funded initiatives
“Our team absolutely loves how the mural came out. It is thoughtful and considerate of the people who get to enjoy it. The pond scene is wonderfully captivating and invites you in for a moment of peace just as we hoped it would. The room now has so much more character and color than it did! Our team appreciated that our feedback was well-received and considered. It was incredibly meaningful to have you meet with our patients and use their feedback in the project development process. We loved your passion and excitement!”
Kelly Murphy - Supervisor of Patient Safety - Samaritan Hospital