Using Art to Heal: Local Student Brightens GBMC’s Pediatric Spaces with Color and Compassion

When 13-year-old Clancy Hosford of Baltimore County was given the opportunity to complete a community service project as part of his eighth-grade graduation requirement, he began with a simple idea: to create colorful, uplifting artwork for children facing illness or injury. Clancy designed a series of vibrant, imaginative pieces specifically intended to brighten hospital environments and lift the spirits of young patients and their families – artwork that brings comfort and joy to young patients at GBMC. 

Working with oil pastels on paper, Clancy drew inspiration from the colors and natural beauty of Florida, where his mother is from and where he has had the opportunity to visit. These bright, playful scenes are designed to evoke a sense of warmth, energy, and joy—qualities Clancy hopes will bring comfort to children receiving care. 

In May, Clancy visited GBMC’s Pediatric Emergency and Inpatient Department, where his work is now temporarily exhibited in each of the department’s seven inpatient rooms. During his visit, Clancy had the opportunity to meet with Laura B. Scott, MD, FAAP, Director of Pediatric Inpatient and Emergency Medicine. Together, they toured the unit, reviewed the artwork, and discussed the powerful role that creative expression can play in patient care. 

“We are so grateful for Clancy’s thoughtful contribution,” said Dr. Scott. “His artwork not only enhances the healing environment for our patients but also reminds us of all of the kindness and generosity that exists in our community.” 

Clancy’s pieces—each carefully framed and displayed alongside his artist statement—feature bold colors, whimsical shapes, and playful designs that bring warmth and personality to the clinical setting. His artistic statement hangs in every room alongside his artwork and shares the heart behind the project. 

This is not Clancy’s first time sharing his work in health care spaces. His art has also been exhibited at the University of Florida in Gainesville, where it similarly provided hope and encouragement to patients in need. Through these experiences, Clancy recognized the meaningful impact that even small acts of service—like sharing his artwork—can have on the lives of others. 

Clancy is now a student in the Ignatian Honors Program at Loyola Blakefield and hopes to continue as an artist. He hopes his project at GBMC will encourage other young people to use their own talents to make a difference, showing that anyone can bring joy to others by starting with something they love.