Dr Lili-Ann Berg completed a beautiful mural in the mortuary corridor of John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle NSW this year. The many people using this corridor and visiting the mortuary in particular, are now greeted by this memorable work of a bird flying against the setting (or rising) sun.

Back in 2002 the mortuary viewing area of the hospital was refurbished with paintings and design by input of Lili-Ann Berg , Isobel Sommer and Piippa Robinson. The refurbishment produced a supportive and calming atmosphere in the room which was enhanced by the paintings of Lili-Ann. The chambered nautilus shell, the symbol of the divine or universal love, was used as a basis for these works and is also stylised as the window design in the mortuary.

In 2009, our sponsorship in providing paints, enabled the hospital to again engage Lili-Ann to create a long mural on the large curved wall of the mortuary corridor that greets people as they emerge from the lift at HO. She began with the idea of the nautilus but this time shifted focus to the beach and on to the idea of a setting or rising of the sun over the water. It was felt that a mural on that wall would act as a calming influence for people progressing down the corridor. She also added much interest in the area by engaging with the people using this corridor while she was painting.

It is a remarkable artwork which changes the hospital environment and demonstrates a feeling of compassion and warmth for all who use it.