August 10, 2023

Bishop Byrne offers blessing as Mercy Medical Center unveils sculpture

REGIONAL
Staff report

Bishop William Byrne, Sister of Providence Mary Caritas Geary, and local artist Harold Grinspoon pose after the unveiling of Grinspoon’s “Nature’s Harp” sculpture in the main lobby of Mercy Medical Center on Aug. 10. (iObserve photo/courtesy of Mercy Medical Center)

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne offered a blessing on Aug. 10 as Mercy Medical Center leaders and supporters gathered to unveil a sculpture by philanthropist and renowned local artist Harold Grinspoon.

The sculpture, entitled “Nature’s Harp,” is installed in the main lobby, offering a calming influence for patients and visitors entering the hospital.

“At Mercy Medical Center, we put our patients at the center of everything we do, with a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the mind, body, and spirit. ‘Nature’s Harp’ is a magnificent sculpture that calls to mind the beauty and enduring elements of our world,” said Dr. Robert Roose, chief administrative officer of Mercy Medical Center and Johnson Memorial Hospital. “We believe it’s installation here at Mercy will provide a sense of reassurance and peace to those who pass through our doors. We are grateful to Harold Grinspoon for his generosity in sharing his beautiful artwork with our colleagues, patients, and visitors.”

“Nature’s Harp” is one of 160 sculptures Grinspoon has created since he began his career as an artist in 2014. Constructed of oak and featuring the wood’s natural color, the sculpture stands more than six feet tall and is part of the artist’s Tree Sculpture Series. It will be on display at Mercy Medical Center for two years.    

The artist observes the natural shape of the reclaimed wood to determine how it will be used in a sculpture. As an avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Grinspoon was inspired by the slender, curved branches to create “Nature’s Harp,” giving new life to the reclaimed oak and a unique way to appreciate its beauty.