The Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) is transforming its extensive art collection into an accessible digital experience that supports patient wellbeing, recovery and connection. 

The initiative will create an online catalogue of the hospital's artwork, allowing patients and families to explore each piece – from their room - through photographs, artist stories, audio descriptions and conversation prompts. Then, as patients regain strength and mobility, they can begin moving around the hospital, to experience the artworks in person. 

By making art accessible, even from the bedside, the project aims to enrich the hospital experience, reduce isolation and create meaningful opportunities for movement and connection during recovery. 

A hospital stay can be physically and emotionally challenging, with many patients spending long periods alone in their rooms. 

Research has shown that engaging with art can reduce anxiety, improve mood and even support recovery. Yet despite housing a professionally curated collection across seven floors, much of the artwork at STARS is difficult for patients to discover or access, particularly for those with limited mobility. 

This initiative unlocks that hidden resource. 

Through an accessible online catalogue, patients will be able to enjoy the artwork from their bedside, learn about the artists and use conversation prompts to spark discussions with family, visitors and staff. Audio descriptions and detailed explanations will ensure the collection is also accessible to people with visual impairment. 

As patients recover, the collection can become a motivation to get out of bed and explore the hospital, supporting gentle physical activity alongside cognitive and social engagement. 

The initiative also strengthens cultural safety by showcasing a collection in which around 60 per cent of the artworks are created by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients feel welcomed, represented and connected.

The long-term goal is to embed art as an active part of the healing environment—supporting emotional wellbeing, encouraging recovery and transforming the hospital experience through creativity, culture and human connection.