Well Known Ceramist Helps Hospice
Mercy
Hospice Auckland recognise the importance of remembering a loved one
but finding the right way to do that has lead them to award winning
New Zealand ceramic artist, Bob Steiner.
With the assistance of Bob Steiner, Mercy Hospice is developing a series of tiled art works to be displayed in its courtyard on College Hill, Ponsonby.
Chief executive officer of Mercy Hospice, Jan Nichols says finding something beautiful with longevity was the key.
"Over the years we have planted flower gardens and trees, but we wanted something that was going to last a long time and could be part of something bigger. It means future generations will be able to come and spend time in the courtyard knowing their loved one's tile is part of something stunning."
Each tile represents either the memory of a particular person or the contribution made by individuals, families, companies and other organisations to the future service of Mercy Hospice Auckland.
"It will be a lovely way to thank the community for their financial support, as without the community's backing the hospice would not be able to provide the services it does free of charge to the people we care for (anyone with a life limiting illness) and their family."
Mr. Steiner specialises in sculptural designed forms that can be used indoors or out. He is now enjoying creating large compositional sculptures which feature as part of the grounds of Mercy Hospice.
"Obviously my art is my life so to be able to create something that will allow other people to remember a loved one's life is something I take seriously. It’s an honour."
The tiles he has designed for Mercy Hospice are proudly New Zealand focused with green flax flowers, cream flax panels, Kowhai, Pohutukawa and Tui as choices. Once each panel is sold it will be erected in a particular place in the courtyard and each contribution will be recognised on an adjacent honour board.
The cost of each tile varies starting from $250 which Ms. Nichols says will go towards running the community and inpatient services at Mercy Hospice Auckland which includes the cost of nursing, medical and emotional care, car running expenses for nurses, training in new palliative care techniques and bereavement counselling for families.
"To give you an idea, it costs around $600 a day for each patient staying at the hospice and $100 for each palliative care home visit, so the funds are much needed and greatly appreciated."