‘She is making magic’: Local artist dedicates new mural to Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center team

WOODBRIDGE, Va. ( DC News Now ) — One entryway at the Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (SNVMC) is now filled with flowers, butterflies and portraits of faces after a new work of art was brought to life.

For years, old photos and a ton of blank wall space lined the entrance to the hospital’s north side from the employee parking lot. But the SNVMC President, Jeff Joyner, had an idea to create an environment that would help boost the team spirit: a new mural.

“When creating this design, I wanted to reflect two of the most gratifying elements of working in healthcare — the love of helping people, and the joy of working with the team. I included scenes of employees and patients surrounded with bright, happy colors in a garden atmosphere. It is also filled with butterflies that represent hope, recovery and transformation. I hope this cheerful space brings a smile to employee’s faces as they come and go!” said artist, Alethea Marie Robinson.

Robinson began painting the mural in June and finished several weeks later. While halfway through the installation, she started jotting down the comments people made as she brought the mural to life.

• “This will encourage people when they’re coming into work or bring them up when they are leaving after a hard day.”
• “A breath of fresh air flowing through here every day.”
• “I love how diverse it is.”
• “Aw, it makes me smile.”
• “This is so great because it lifts people’s spirits and changes your mood.”
• “She is making magic!”

On Sept. 25, SNVMC held a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the new addition. Officials said on Wednesday, the hall was filled with Sentara team members from across all departments for the dedication.

The hospital said the mural includes a visual illustration of Sentara’s new cultural attributes, which reflect the organization’s values, beliefs and behavior.

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