New Art Installation "Sentia" to Grace the Susanne B. Wilson Women and Children’s Center at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center
30-Foot-Tall Kinetic Sculpture Created to Welcome Children and Families
Santa Clara County, Calif. – Santa Clara Valley Healthcare (SCVH) today introduced an extraordinary art installation above the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center's Susanne B. Wilson Women and Children’s Center (WCC), creating a striking and welcoming centerpiece for patients, especially children, arriving on campus. Funding for “Sentia” (sen-TEE-uh) came from the generous donors of Valley Health Foundation.
“Sentia” is a 30-foot-tall freestanding kinetic sculpture, created by renowned German artist Christian Moeller, that will be a symbol of welcome and hope for expectant parents, families, and youth.
Drawing inspiration from a drinking bird or stork, “Sentia” boasts an ellipsoid-shaped belly that gracefully sways with the wind, symbolizing the connection between the sculpture and the many families who frequent the WCC. The motion is achieved through an electromagnetic system, seamlessly transitioning between activity and inactivity, representing the beautiful journey of the birthing process.
“The installation of ‘Sentia’ marks a significant moment for our medical center, as the art helps tell the story of the compassionate and nurturing environment of the Susanne B. Wilson Women and Children’s Center,” said President of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors Susan Ellenberg. “In so many contexts, art is an instrument of healing. We are confident this captivating sculpture will serve as an iconic centerpiece and a warm invitation to all patients and visitors.”
Moeller is best known in the Bay Area for his “Hands” installation at the Mineta San Jose International Airport, which has become a memorable iconography for Bay Area residents and visitors to Santa Clara Valley.
“From a kid's perspective, a hospital can be a scary place,” said Michael Elliott, President and Executive Director of Valley Health Foundation. “We want our young visitors to be greeted by something that inspires wonder instead of fear. That can have a big impact on the overall patient experience.”
The County of Santa Clara partnered with Silicon Valley Creates to support the creative transformation of the WCC into an inviting location for all. During the conception stage of “Sentia,” artist Christian Moeller worked with facility staff and patients to design a piece that aligns with the nature of its site as understood by the community closest to it.
"In collaboration with SCVMC, we set out to create spaces that inspire and welcome patients, visitors and employees and add a touch of magic and whimsy,” said Connie Martinez, Chief Executive Officer for SVCREATES. “Christian Mueller's ‘Sentia' demonstrates the power of public art to do just that while distinguishing the location of the Women and Children’s Center on the SCVMC campus."
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About Santa Clara Valley Healthcare
Santa Clara Valley Healthcare (SCVH), California's second-largest County-owned health and hospital system, is comprised of three acute care hospitals, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, O’Connor Hospital, and St. Louise Regional Hospital, along with a network of primary and specialty clinics. SCVH emphasizes quality care, research, teaching, innovation, and most importantly, a focus on coordinated, compassionate and patient-centered care to every patient. Our mission is to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare and excellent service to everyone in Santa Clara County, regardless of their social-economic status or ability to pay.
About Valley Health Foundation
The Valley Health Foundation (VHF) is a non-profit leader in community health and healthcare that fundraises to support, innovate, and advocate better health for all in Santa Clara County. VHF helps patients, families, and dedicated healthcare professionals who serve in public healthcare facilities in Santa Clara County. VHF is the foundation for Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, O’Connor Hospital, and St. Louise Regional Hospital, 14 primary and specialty care health centers, Santa Clara County Public Health, Behavioral Health Services, and Custody Health. VHF also supports many community-based programs and services that share our mission to ensure better health for all. The Valley Health Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 77-0187890) that is supported by donors.
Media contact: Media Relations, 408.568.3122, [email protected]
Posted: August 28, 2023