A vibrant new art installation now greets patients, families, and staff at Children's & Women's Hospital.

The sculpture, Bed of Flowers, created by internationally acclaimed artist Gay Outlaw, was formally dedicated during a ceremony on Nov. 1.

The Mobile-born, San Francisco-based artist designed the piece with 120 hot pink aluminum flowers connected by bronze stems, forming a striking display in an oval-shaped median outside the hospital's pediatric emergency center. Outlaw's work has been exhibited globally, including at the Aspen Art Museum and SOTA in Kyoto, Japan, and she has permanent installations at San Francisco International Airport.

"We are thrilled to be able to bring such a stunning piece of art to Children's & Women's Hospital," said Debbie Browning, MSN, RN, CENP, CEO of Children's & Women's Hospital. "Our hope is that everyone who visits can experience the joy and beauty of these vibrant flowers for years to come. We are profoundly grateful for the generosity of Mrs. Arlene Mitchell, who made this sculpture possible."

Mitchell, chair pro tem of the University of South Alabama Board of Trustees, commissioned the piece as part of her longtime dedication to the hospital. She has championed bringing Outlaw's work to Children's & Women's Hospital for years.

Browning, University of South Alabama President Jo Bonner and Outlaw spoke at the ceremony, each recognizing Mitchell for leading the project.

"You are my new hero for positive energy," Outlaw told Mitchell from the podium. "I can't thank you enough."

The sculpture was constructed in both San Francisco and Mobile, blending the artist's expertise with the community's touch. The result is an uplifting display that Browning hopes will inspire visitors for years to come.

For the hospital, Bed of Flowers is more than just an art piece — it's a testament to community collaboration and the power of art to heal and uplift.