In an innovative move to highlight the creative and human sides of healthcare, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) has launched the RVH Zine—a collection of artistic expression by staff, professional staff, and volunteers.
Featuring poetry, paintings, sketches, photography, collages, and even crochet, the RVH Zine is a celebration of the diverse talents and personal stories that make up Team RVH. The publication embraces the zine format—a historically grassroots, small-batch medium known for its authenticity and self-expression.
RVH Senior Curator Frances Thomas emphasized the emotional impact of creativity in healthcare: “Whether through the process of painting, writing, or simply by viewing art, we access a powerful internal space to pause, reflect and heal. Creative expression supports emotional well-being, enhances empathy, and reminds us of the humanity we all share.”
A Natural Evolution of Art@RVH
The RVH Zine expands upon the successful Art@RVH program, which has curated museum-level, permanent art collections throughout the facility for over a decade. Led by Thomas and championed by President and CEO Gail Hunt, Art@RVH has grown into an integral part of the healthcare experience.
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Shifting the focus from curated works to the creative voices of healthcare workers, the RVH Zine provides an accessible and deeply personal way for staff to share their artistry. Vice President, People Experience and Chief Human Resources Officer Dara Marcoccia noted that this initiative reflects a broader cultural shift at RVH: “At RVH, initiatives like the Zine reflect our commitment to staff well-being and create space for connection, reflection and care.”
A Holistic Approach to Patient Care
Beyond supporting staff wellness, the RVH Zine is reaching patients, families, and visitors. By sharing personal artistic works in waiting rooms and online, RVH is fostering an atmosphere of care that extends beyond physical health to emotional and spiritual well-being.
Copies of the RVH Zine will be available throughout RVH, with a digital version accessible online at www.rvh.on.ca/about-rvh/artrvh.
