Local Artists Jason Carter and Bridget Ryan Illuminate Canmore General Hospital's Emergency Department

As part of the revitalization of Canmore General Hospital's Emergency Department (ED), 14 original artworks by renowned local artist Jason Carter will be incorporated into the new space. 

The artwork donated by Jason Carter and his life/business partner Bridget Ryan will feature playful images of significance to the Bow Valley, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the Emergency Department. The collection aims to provide solace and inspiration to those navigating the challenges of a hospital environment.

Jason and Bridget have a history of traumatic experiences in hospital emergency rooms. When Bridget was young, she had an operation l. “I remember going down for surgery, and in the hallway, there was all of this art. I was only seven years old, but to this day, I don’t remember the trauma, I don’t remember the pain, I remember being so in awe of the beautiful art.”

Speaking about his connection to this project, Jason said, “When this opportunity came up, Bridget and I discussed what it could look like and how important it is. It felt like a tremendous opportunity to give back to the community and give back to the 12-year-old versions of ourselves that went through those things.” 

Tamara Richardson, Site Manager at the Canmore General Hospital, expressed her gratitude for the donation, stating, "The inclusion of art in the Emergency Department creates a welcoming environment and uplifting atmosphere where patients can feel safe. It helps to maintain a connection to the world outside these walls. We are beyond thankful for Jason Carter and Bridget Ryan for their thoughtful contribution to the healing environment we strive to provide."

Jason Carter is a nationally recognized visual artist from the Little Red River Cree Nation and is known for his expertise in sculpture, painting, and illustration. Represented by galleries in Edmonton and Ontario, Carter is a full-time practicing artist and co-owner of the Carter Ryan Art Galleries with Bridget Ryan in Banff and Canmore.

Bridget Ryan, equally accomplished as a Creative Director and Producer, has left her mark as an actor, playwright, and director in Edmonton's most established art venues. Collaborating with Jason, the couple has co-created multimedia productions and grand-scale events.

The Canmore & Area Health Care Foundation encourages the community to join in celebrating this transformative initiative, showcasing the power of art in healthcare environments. 

The ED project began in 2023 and has a budget of $4.4 million. It is the largest fundraising campaign undertaken by the Canmore & Area Health Care Foundation to date. Supported by funds from The Government of Alberta and Alberta Health Services, community donors, and a transformative gift from locals Lorne Heuckroth and Joyce Heukroth, the renovation aims to enhance the overall experience in the Emergency Department.

About the project Steven Scott, Chair of the Canmore and Area Health Care Foundation said “I am so grateful to the donors, community partners and volunteers for their ongoing support of the Canmore Healthcare Foundation. With the input from hospital staff and administration I believe we have created a plan for the revitalization of the Emergency Department at Canmore General Hospital that will be a shining example of what this community can achieve. Hospital workers will see a space that is patient centric while still providing them with a modern, efficient place to work. This effort was supported by countless individual and corporate donors without whom this would not have been possible.”