Hallways of Hope

Bruyère Health patients and artist Christopher Griffin bring their inspiring Hallways of Hope collection to the Ottawa Art Gallery.

The Hallways of Hope project began at Bruyère Health’s Centretown site on a unit that is home to patients with complex medical needs, many of whom require ventilator support, and have limited mobility.

Working alongside local artist Christopher Griffin, patients participated in 1:1 drawing and creative sessions that gave life to vivid large-scale paintings.

“It was great because I was helpless almost and this helped me to do something. And once I had done it, I felt more happy that I could do something even though I was very sick”

– Badrudduza Kazi, Patient

These works of art turned patients into artists and generated feelings of purpose and connection, reminding us of the significance of hope in challenging times.

The process offered a critical creative outlet for those facing complex medical challenges, and now, their artwork will be available for everyone to see at the Ottawa Art Gallery.

“What I enjoyed about the process and the project was the excitement of painting something close to me. I’ve always wanted to paint but I was too chicken. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Christopher was absolutely inspiring.”

– Anne-Marie Loiselle, Patient

“The impact of Hallways of Hope on me has been profound. Begun with no intentions other than creating work collaboratively with patients on the 5th floor to hang on their hospital walls, it almost immediately became something more. It offered me a connection to people I never would have met, living under conditions that are foreign to me. The wonderful vernissage had everyone sitting beside their creations interacting as human beings rather than as patients. It was joy and pride that was visible over everyone’s face. Perhaps only a brief respite, it is nevertheless a testament to the power of art and the strength of the human spirit.”

– Christopher Griffin, Artist

What began as a therapeutic art initiative has grown into a city-wide celebration of creativity and community. Through this exhibit, visitors can see the original works and discover how art can transform not only physical spaces, but health care.

“We believe that every patient deserves more than care – they deserve hope, joy, and a chance to live their life to the fullest. At Bruyere Health, maximizing quality of life isn’t just an outcome, it’s our purpose.”

– Guy Chartrand, president and CEO.

Opening to the public on November 15, 2025, Hallways of Hope will run until January 11, 2026.

“Inclusion is at the heart of what we do at the Ottawa Art Gallery. Hallways of Hope beautifully reflects this value — a collaboration with artist Christopher Griffin that brings together patients, artists, and the community, showing how art can heal, connect, and inspire. We’re honoured to share these works and to celebrate the artists behind them.”

-Alexandra Badzak, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ottawa Art Gallery

Visit the exhibit

Location: Ottawa Art Gallery – level 0
Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Admission: Free and open to the public

Join us in celebrating the creativity and courage of these artists and discover how art can transform not only physical spaces, but health care.

About Bruyère Health

Bruyère Health is Eastern Ontario’s leading health organization specializing in aging, rehabilitation, and care for those with multiple complex medical conditions. We bring together compassionate, person-centred care with world-class research to maximize quality of life for those we care for and their loved ones. 

About the Ottawa Art Gallery

The Ottawa Art Gallery is home to the Art and Artists of the Ottawa-Gatineau region; where you can experience the collections, exhibits and events that link us, and where connection happens between Art and City.