Step Exhibitions
Therapeutic Art Program at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto
Nominee Information
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) aims to transform the lives of those affected by mental health and addiction, combining clinical care, research, education, policy development and health promotion.
This redevelopment project included the addition of two LEED® gold buildings to the campus – the McCain Complex Care & Recovery Building, and the Crisis & Critical Care Building. The buildings balance patient-focused treatment environments while promoting public interaction, curiosity, and education. The design team engaged patients, families, and care teams to create welcoming, healing spaces that physically manifest and support CAMH’s mission, including thoughtful integration of art.
CAMH’s Therapeutic Art Program includes a range of installations that are woven throughout the buildings, enhancing patient and visitor experience with the healing power of art. They aid in recovery, positive distraction, and well-being – a reflection of CAMH’s drive for innovation and design excellence. One lobby features seven suspended glass sculptures and a biophilic mural, together titled “All my Relations”, designed by Indigenous artist Rebecca Baird. The star-like details create a visually descriptive bridge, connecting the concept of the cosmos to the mural imagery. This piece embodies what patients expressed in consultations which was the desire for the community to see reflections of themselves, and together, create uplifting spaces.
The library showcases an innovative, scrolling digital installation titled “Paths” by Alex McCleod, featuring four scenes of the changing seasons and vibrant colour palettes. The viewer is guided through multiple looping sequences of forested discovery. Its prominent location allows the installation to be experienced from both the interior and exterior of the building and invites passersby for a closer look.
While paintings, prints and photos are included, many pieces are sculptural or large-scale installations that seamlessly integrate into the base building. “The Dancing Bear” is a series of carved stone panels above a reception fireplace. Designed by Simon Shimout, a CAMH client, this powerful piece tells his story of recovery and transformation. The interior design is inspired by the beauty and respite of nature – the therapeutic gardens, public courtyard and terraces, coupled with the energizing urban setting. An oversized sculpture outside is a nod to an unusual white squirrel often spotted in the neighbourhood, creating a sense of identity. At a feature stair, the urban streetscape and buildings plastered with posters inspired an abstracted backdrop on glass by Niall McClelland. One lobby has a long sculptural bench made of wood from trees felled onsite, connecting back to nature and sustainability.
The inclusion of many pieces by CAMH clients and those with lived experience fosters a sense of identity, pride, and reflection. Across from the emergency department in a public lounge is a beautiful blue mural, “The Garden Within”, led by David Hind in collaboration with clients and staff. Sketches of flowers and words of hope and encouragement are etched onto a painted metal backdrop.
CAMH’s Therapeutic Art Program truly embodies the vision of Patient-Centred Care, Empowerment, and Recovery, reminding us of our interconnectedness and the beauty of the human spirit.
