Starting in June, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital, thanks to a $10,030 Agnesian HealthCare Foundation gift, will begin to display community artwork just off its lobby by the main hospital elevator.
The new art gallery will feature rotating pieces of art from area non-profit organizations and schools in Green Lake, Princeton, Ripon, and Rosendale-Brandon. Pieces will be swapped out every month.
SSM Health Ripon Community has its first art pieces for display, in collaboration with Art MidWisconsin, a local nonprofit. On Tuesday, June 9 from 4:30 – 5:30 pm, the hospital will be hosting an art open house featuring work created by many local artists. This event is free and open to the public.
One local artist, Travis Nygard, shares, “This is a wonderful opportunity for our organization to show our work, and we are thrilled that the hospital is collaborating with us. We hope to continue to have displays there in future years.”
This existing exhibit will run through the end of July 2026 with Diverse Options scheduled to display work in August 2026 and the Ripon Boys & Girls Club scheduled for September 2026.
“Studies have shown that exposure to art can reduce the need for pain medication, promote shorter hospital stays, and reduce patient and caregiver stress,” according to DeAnn Thurmer, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital president. “In addition to offering patients and visitors a unique visual experience, this showcase brings local artists and community together. Our staff look forward to the different exhibits.”
The rotating art exhibits provide patients and visitors with an enriched visual experience proven to advance healing through opportunities for reflection and artistic interpretation.
“Our mission to provide exceptional care involves nurturing our community to develop healthy bodies, minds, and spirits so we are delighted to be able to showcase the talents of these area artists in a place where so many individuals can be engaged and inspired by their creativity,” says Nicole Gill, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital vice president/clinic administrator.
Volunteer Services is coordinating the art gallery and is looking forward to many exhibits coming. To learn more or questions, call Tara Rhodes, SSM Health volunteer coordinator, at 920-926-4955.
Date posted: June 4, 2026