SSM Health opens youth, community art gallery in Waupun

September 8, 2025

WAUPUN – SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital is featuring a rotating gallery of community and student artwork in its main lobby, across from the gift shop – a project supported by the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation.

DeAnn Thurmer, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital president, said the new art gallery will feature rotating pieces of art from area schools and nonprofit organizations, like REACH Waupun and Waupun Fine Arts – with exhibits rotating quarterly.

“Studies have shown that exposure to art can reduce the need for pain medication, promote shorter hospital stays and reduce patient and caregiver stress,” she said. “In addition to offering patients and visitors a unique visual experience, this showcase brings local artists and the community together.”

Nicole Gill – SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital vice president/clinic administrator – said the rotating art exhibits provide patients and visitors with an enriched visual experience proven to advance healing through opportunities for reflection and artistic interpretation.

“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,” she said.