A new exhibition showcases the diverse interests of St. Boniface Hospital’s community, encouraging understanding and compassion.
The Off the Clock exhibition at St. B’s on-site Galerie Buhler Gallery highlights the hobbies of Hospital physicians, staff, and volunteers. The Gallery invited participants to submit a hobby or art piece and share its significance to them. This exhibition fosters connections within the Hospital while offering visitors and patients insights into the staff who care for them.
“I’m really interested in what people do when they aren’t at work, and lots of people here enjoy creating art,” said hannah_g, Galerie Buhler Gallery’s Curator.
hannah created Off the Clock to celebrate creativity and allow everyone to be a part of an exhibition. She emphasized the importance of hobbies and art, and how the Gallery provides a safe and quiet space for anyone who needs to relax and recharge.
The exhibition is supported by St. Boniface Hospital Foundation donors, who allow the Gallery to host various exhibitions throughout the year. With around 50 Off the Clock submissions, visitors can see paintings, curling brooms, comic books, crochet work, and much more.
“So many health benefits are associated with hobbies,” said Nicole Aminot, President and CEO of St. Boniface Hospital, at the opening reception. “When you take time to do activities that make you happy, it helps your well-being and mental health.”
St. B staff member inspired to collect
Distribution Warehouse worker, Paul Rempel, shared his passion for collecting vintage neckties, a hobby he has been enjoying for 15 years. Rempel was inspired by an old photo of his father wearing a wide tie with a unique pattern from the 1940s.
“I thought it looked cool and knew I wanted to start a collection of my own,” said Rempel.
Participants were given the chance to name their submissions and provide short artist statements about them. hannah also contributed to the exhibit by including her bicycle for a piece she titled A Friend for The Golden Hawk.
“Ever since my sister taught me how to ride when we were little, I have loved bicycles,” said hannah. “When I have friends visiting, I like to be able to loan them some wheels so we can zip around together.”
Exhibition strengthens ties
hannah believes Off the Clock strengthens workplace relationships by showcasing what co-workers at the Hospital do with their free time.
“The more we connect with each other, the stronger our ties are” said hannah. “Having strong ties makes it easier for us to support each other and work together.”
Off the Clock in the Galerie Buhler Gallery at St. Boniface Hospital runs until January 13, 2025. Admission is free, and more information can be found at galeriebuhlergallery.ca.