Artist Jeff Sewell, born and raised in Newport Beach, is one of the first artists commissioned by UCI Health Irvine for its new hospital near San Joaquin Marsh. Sewell also served on the committee tasked with acquiring art for the three new health buildings on the Irvine campus, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the facility.
Among his contributions, Sewell's piece titled “Back Bay Rest” holds a personal connection, drawing on his childhood memories of the Back Bay. Sewell stated his deep attachment to the area throughout his life, recalling his earliest memories of walking there with his father when he was less than 5 years old.
Sewell has noted that his work at the hospital has already resonated with visitors. He reported that people have recognized his art, often taking photos and sending them to him after their visits. The recognition, he observed, often prompts an awareness that they know the artist.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Sewell expressed pride in UCI Health Irvine's approach. He remarked that while the institution's primary goal might have been to establish a leading hospital, they chose to go "above and beyond what most hospitals would do" by complementing the facility with unique art. This decision, he stated, aims to create an atmosphere that can alleviate the difficulty of visits during challenging times for patients and their families.
Sewell elaborated on the potential impact of art on health and well-being within a hospital setting. He emphasized the goal of creating a more welcoming, less sterile environment, where art helps people feel at home. This focus extends beyond patients to their families, who may spend days at the facility. For these individuals, art can offer a moment of respite, a mental getaway to clear their minds, meditate, or engage in self-reflection. The integration of nature through paintings, he added, was a key component in providing "the grace of nature" to support individuals during difficult periods.
Depicting local scenes was a significant consideration during the art selection process. The committee aimed to include many recognizable locations, particularly traditional Orange County scenes. Sewell’s own paintings contribute to this effort, featuring local landscapes that allow visitors to recognize places and feel more at home within the hospital environment. For Sewell, being part of this experience and having his work included in a permanent collection at a facility he considers his "backyard" is an honor.
