Inspire Arts Collection
It began in 1975 when the medical center’s new buildings-in-progress revealed vast empty spaces that seemed to cry out for art.
Visual Art Collection
Donations and sponsorships
Do you have a special piece to donate or a special individual you wish to honor by sponsoring an artwork? We would love to hear from you! Many opportunities are available to you. Donor recognition is important to us and accomplished by permanent plaques placed next to donated artwork and recognition in Hennepin Health Foundation’s annual report. To discuss opportunities, call the Hennepin Healthcare arts program coordinator at 612-873-2208.
History
The art collection at Hennepin Healthcare contains many wonderful and regionally important pieces. It began in 1975 when the medical center’s new buildings-in-progress revealed vast empty spaces that seemed to cry out for art. A committee was formed to acquire art for the new building. The committee first secured a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and obtained additional funding from the Minnesota State Arts Board to supplement philanthropic funds.
Then came the daunting task of reviewing more than 4,000 slides submitted by regional artists wishing to be included in the fledgling new collection. Narrowing the field to 25 artists in a series of marathon meetings, the committee then selected 17 pieces for purchase. When the new hospital opened on May 5, 1976, several pieces were ready for installation, and all 17 were installed by May, 1978. Since then, many new pieces have been added including a Paul Granlund sculpture and several others acquired when Hennepin Healthcare purchased the former Metropolitan Medical Center in 1991. A number of pieces are by artists whose work and reputations have flourished in the ensuing years as well as significantly increased in value.
Hennepin Healthcare's visual art collection
Hennepin Healthcare’s visual art collection continues today with an emphasis on works that are shown to be healing by research and evidence-based design. Nearly all works are from local and regional artists and are either purchased or donated by individuals and organizations. The Inspire Arts program grows, tracks and maintains the collection.
