Celebrating Creativity and Sustainability – The Wearable Arts Story
The Genesis of Wearable Arts
The Wearable Arts competition began circa 2012, thanks to the visionary Leonie Jack, a long-time and cherished team member at InterMed until 2023. Leonie recognised the creative potential among her customers, who were like-minded artistic individuals, and showcase it in a unique way. With the support of our supplier partner Wipak, who provided the necessary materials, and the endorsement of the New Zealand Sterile Services Association (NZSSA), the competition was launched at the annual NZSSA conference.
Evolution of the Event
Initially focused on wearable creations/garments, the competition evolved over the years to include accessories and 3D art pieces. This evolution led to the event being renamed “WeArt.” However, in honour of Leonie’s vibrant spirit and to celebrate NZSSA’s 50th Anniversary, the event returned to its original name, Wearable Arts.
The 2024 Event – Reduce, Reuse Recycle
Claire Smith, our CSSD Product Specialist, was inspired by the theme of a Greener Aotearoa New Zealand. She emphasised sustainability, encouraging participants to create their costumes from recycled materials. This theme of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle not only highlighted the importance of environmental conservation but also showcased InterMed’s commitment to preserving the beauty of our planet.
Runway Glamour!
This year’s event kicked off with a spectacular display at the NZSSA 50th Anniversary conference’s welcome soiree. The following nine entries, all from Sterile Service teams around the country poured their hearts and souls into their creations, which are the culmination of countless hours of dedicated and often painstaking work.
1. Franklin Hospital - Fabiosa Whakahou
2. Southern Cross Gillies Ave - From Seed to Bloom, the Bouquet of Sterilisation
3. Taranaki Base Hospital – Wahine Māreikura (meaning female goddess)
4. Otago Dental School - Korowhai (meaning traditional cloak)
5. Remuera Surgical Centre - Eco Metamorphosis from Waste to Wonder
6. Royston Hospital - Lady Whistledown Society Papers
7. Christchurch Hospital - Lines of Work
8. Gisborne Hospital - I am Papatuanuku, Mother Earth
9. Southern Cross Christchurch
People’s Choice: Franklin Hospital (left), Judges’ Award: Southern Cross Gillies Ave (right)
This year’s Wearable Arts competition not only showcased incredible talent but also reinforced the importance of sustainability and community spirit. A heartfelt thanks to Wipak for providing the base materials, and to MTANZ & NZSSA for contributing to the winners’ vouchers. And, of course, to our wonderful customers dedicated their time and amazing creative skills in what was a resounding success celebrating creativity, sustainability, and the memory of Leonie Jack.