Fused glass, painted birch panels
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH
Artist: Caroline Parent
On April 14, 2023, a new art commission by Caroline was unveiled at the grand opening of the Patient Pavilion at Dartmouth Health Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. The five-story building features Caroline’s stunning glass panorama in the lobby. Called “Transformation,” the site-specific project is comprised of nine individual sections of fused glass and painted birch panels which stretch 136” in length and 60” in height. The art was installed in an illuminated, custom-built wall niche which faces the waiting area. The art was inspired by the rolling hills, lakes and wide blue sky so typical of the region. Soothing blues and greens are a counterpoint to the vibrant yellows and oranges of the colorful scene. As the daylight changes, the colors and images within shift as well, transforming the piece into new impressions.
Caroline painted the upper panels in order to give them a more abstract and dreamy quality. Now, when one views the sky, the imagination can take wing and interpret varied shapes and places in the soft clouds.
While the artwork took many months from concept sketches to finished product, Caroline did the final installation in one day, starting at 6 a.m., thanks to much careful preparation. She worked closely with the building’s project manager and interior designer so that the art worked perfectly with the space and the colors of the décor (note how the salmon-colored chairs match the salmon hues in the glass). It was also imperative that the wall space be planned to support the nine glass panels and showcase them appropriately.
“My artwork is my legacy so I take great care to make sure that it is exactly right for the building, the setting and the client,” says Caroline. “It is a joy to complete projects such as this for medical facilities. I am honored to be invited to design for them, and so happy to think that my work may bring peace and happiness to those viewing it.”
Caroline hopes that the art will take others on their own journey of change as they contemplate the art and savor a few moments of peace and relaxation.
Check out the short video of the installation and more photos below.
‘Transformation’ completed April 2023
9 panels, total size 136″ x 60″
fused glass and painted birch panels
Artist: Caroline Parent
