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News and events

2024

Breast Screening Clinic

We are delighted to have Photographer Alan Wise's pictures taken from around Yorkshire to add interest and brighten the rooms of the new Breast Screening Clinic.

Alans style is colourful and he has favourite areas like Lake Gormire near Sutton Bank which he visits at different seasons and times of day to capture its ever changing beauty. 

Alan Montage Charity copy

Above picture shows a montage of some of the photographs in the clinic

Alans work was chosen by the Breast Screening staff and this project was paid for by York & Scarborough Hospital Charity who help improve the experience of using our Hospitals for patients, visitors and staff.


Children's Ward Artwork - Scarborough Hospital 

The Children’s ward is thrilled with the new artwork addition that has recently been installed at Scarborough Hospital.  Following a donation from Scarborough Arts Society we were able to bring this joyous ‘Little Pigs’ image to the ward corridor, installing the artwork at a low height so the children can easily engage and interact with it.

Lil Pigs 8

The artwork is by York based artist Katrina Mansfield. Katrina uses fluid inks to create this style of artwork, which is already garnering lots of interaction and attention from the children. Hopefully it will continue to capture imaginations for some time to come.

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Our great appreciation goes to Scarborough Arts Society for the kind donation which enabled this project to take place through Y&S Hospital charities. We were thrilled to select Katrina’s work for this project and to support Katrina who is also a staff member for York and Scarborough NHS Teaching Hospitals Trust. 

The photographs above show images of the children's ward corridor area with the Katrina Mansfield 'Little Pigs' artwork on display


Lantern Project- NHS Departments Community Stadium

The Arts Team have been working with Jen Benison from the Capital Projects Team to help brighten up the waiting area, counselling rooms and corridors of the new NHS Departments at the Community Stadium in York.

After photos

Waiting-area-montage

Picture above shows two montages of the artworks in the NHS Department areas

The commissioned artwork is by artist Lesley Birch, thanks also to Fast Frames York, WhiteWall & Carl Sanderson for installing the pictures.


Intensive Care Unit Artwork

The Arts Team were approached by staff asking to help soften the clinical feel of the new built Intensive Care Unit for families arriving to see relatives.

Staff and patient areas required brightening and interest created as there is no natural light in the unit. Working from feedback received the artwork might help provide a focus when life is particularly challenging, to help as patients are taking extra steps and are facing what is probably a life-changing experience for them and their family. 

Michelle-Staff-Reception

The montage above shows before and after shots of the Staff area. Artwork by Michelle Hughes

The digital illustrations, landscape lino prints, paintings and photography went through several versions, as staff supported the project with advice and suggestions to what would work site-specifically.

For example, staff chose bright vibrant floral designs which local artist Michelle Hughes designed, selected linocut landscapes from her collection and four photographic prints from Photographer Alexander Linseys portfolio for the lightboxes in the corridor.

Thanks to artist Clare M Wood for her soothing paintings chosen by a staff member and installed in the unit and a staff meeting room.

Alex

The montage above shows photographs of before and after pictures of the link corridor to the ICU Unit

"In intensive care, the appearance of the artwork has dramatically changed the unit. It looks much less clinical and altogether much more welcoming. The link corridor has changed from soul-less and clinical to a lovely reminder of the great outdoors! I’m sure patients as they recover from severe illness will see that art and will gain extra positivity from it. So much better than a featureless wall."
Consultant in ICU

Michelle-Family-waiting-area

The montage above shows photographs of the patient and family waiting area. All artwork above is by Michelle Hughes

Thanks to staff Elaine Hunter Lead Nurse in Critical Care & Bertrand Porhel – Clinical Educator who made sure everything was in order and liaised with staff for their feedback on what artwork they liked best.

The printers & installers where Harrisons Printers

The Hospital Estates Team did the painting of the walls and electrics for the light boxes. It was project coordinated by The Arts Team, the York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity help support the Arts.

The project was funded by The Kirkby Foundation & The Whitwam Family Charitable Foundation and supported by staff.


Tribute to the Rainbow

A new exhibition by Photographer John Shepherd has been installed outside the cashiers corridor at York Hospital.

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The COVID 19 pandemic resulted in lockdown and as the pandemic progressed support for the NHS manifested itself with a proliferation of images using the rainbow as a symbol.

Using this idea as inspiration John took a series of botanical styled images using the theme of colours of the rainbow. Restrictions meant that his choice of subjects would be restricted to those that he could find in his garden or close by.

Some images were photographed ‘in situ’ other images were from plants brought indoors.

These beautiful RHS Gold Medal award winning photographs have been kindly donated to the Hospital by John.


The Arts Team have installed artwork from our collection in several stairwells at York Hospital.

Stairwell montage

An artwork by Damien Hirst has also been installed at the front entrance of York Hospital. Butterfly Rainbow a reproduced Perspex artwork is made up of bands of coloured butterfly wings, one of the artist's best known motifs.

Damien Hirst said: "I wanted to do something to support the many people who are risking their lives to help those in need during this time of crisis. The rainbow is a sign of hope and I'm pleased o have released these prints to help fund the brilliant work being done by NHS staff across the country."

Rainbow-website-size


2022

Autumn Room, Scarborough Hospital

The arts team and the palliative care team at York & Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have recently been working with photography Students at York St. John University (YSJ) on creating imagery to tie in with the palliative care teams Autumn theme. We are thrilled that a large photographic print by Aisling Longbottom, a YSJ photography student, has now been installed in the Ann Wright ward in Scarborough Hospital.

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The arts team would to thank all the York St. John photography students for their hard work on the project and to Dr. Christina Kolaiti, the course director.


Community Stadium

We are delighted to announce the Arts Team have installed artwork helping to brighten up the NHS departments based at York Community Stadium, giving the space more of a inviting and interesting contemporary feel. This project was kindly funded by Friends Of York Hospital (FOYH)

Before-after

Above picture is a montage of photographs recording the bare department areas and the newly installed artwork within the NHS waiting areas

The money was used to install a collection of loaned paintings by The Scott Creative Arts Foundation (SCAF) and commission Emerging Artist Russell Hughes to create artwork which works with the idea of community and the building. 

Russell's Hughes artwork involved randomly selecting fourteen postcodes from in and around York, reflecting the use of the Community Stadium by York residents he then travelled from each postcode to the Community Stadium, tracking each journey with a GPS app.
The resulting fourteen GPS data sets and interesting lines have then been used to digitally create the landscapes suggesting how the Stadium serves the needs of the people of York and the surrounding communities.

NHS staff who work at the departments within the Community  Stadium were asked to pick from a curated selection of paintings from The Scott Creative Arts Foundation Gallery (SCAF)

Final montage low res

Picture above shows a collection of photographs of the interior and exterior of the building showing how the paintings relate to the colour's and architecture of the building.

The selected pictures showing Michael & Eileen Scotts paintings are now displayed throughout the NHS departments.

The couple had an ambition was to share the richness of creativity that art brought to their lives, consciously supporting developing artists and donating their artwork to hospitals, hospices, and other public spaces for all to enjoy.
The Scott Creative Arts Foundation (SCAF) was established in the last year of Michael’s life, after Eileen’s passing.

Founder Sue Armstrong continues to run SCAF, fulfilling the couple’s creative wishes. The Foundation is the custodian for just over 1000 pieces of artwork, books, diaries, photographs, narrative CD’s, and videos, all produced by the Scott’s during their lifetime.
SCAF hold an annual Emerging Artists Award for developing artists of all ages in the Yorkshire region. This was one of the most emphatic wishes of Michael and Eileen who wished to bring recognition and awareness to outstanding visual artists in the region.
The Trustees of the Foundation are delighted that the Arts Team have displayed this artwork for the benefit of NHS staff and patients.

To find out more about the artwork visit www.scotts-gallery.co.uk and www.russellhughesart.co.uk/collections


Knitted Hearts

Three large framed pictures of knitted hearts are being installed at Scarborough, Bridlington and York Hospital.

The knitted matching hearts in the frames were some of thousands generously made by the public, to help connect patients and their loved ones. One heart is given to the patient whilst the other is sent out to their family, unable to visit due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Rainbow montage

Picture shows a montage of photos of knitted hearts and the framed artwork which uses the knitted hearts in the shape of a rainbow

Thanks to the Bereavement Team these hearts were distributed widely. The team were amazed by the number of donated hearts, the care and creativity taken by the knitters and were uplifted by the personal notes sent with them.

The Arts Team were asked to create a visual reminder of how much a small token of creativity can be of comfort during a difficult time.


Reflection Week

A ‘catwalk’ photo collection was created by the Arts Team to mark the week of reflection in July. After months of living with a pandemic staff were asked to take to the catwalk and strut their ‘mask life’, allowing them to enjoy the experience, loosen up and share their words.

Here are some of the thoughts and photographs;

Jill Wilford, Matron: “My biggest reflection is that staff (all staff) have worked together for the benefit of patients and each other. Everyone is friendlier, super polite and go the extra mile for each other. There has been great connectivity from all. We need to keep this momentum going.”

Emily Parkinson, Clinical Coding: “This time has given us a chance to coordinate more effective ways of making the job processes work for the team, allowing us to catch up on ourselves and have meaningful space to examine better ways to work.”

Michael Keeling, Stroke Specialist Nurse (and catwalk king): “The past 100 days have seen our service transformed. The full team have worked together to ensure the service continues. Despite anxieties, sadness, tears, frustrations, there has been support, joy and laughter – all coping mechanisms to get us through, to enable us to care for others.”

Montage-for-website

We would like to thank all the staff who took part for sharing some of the challenges and moments from the last 100 days of the pandemic.


Artwork installed in Therapy Suite

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York Hospital’s Stroke Ward received funding from Friends of York Hospitals to improve the environment and functionality of their gym.  Now known as the Therapy Suite, the room is complemented by a large photographic vinyl, sourced by the Arts Team and produced by Harrisons Signs.


Arts in Healthcare artwork installed

Jess Sharp, illustrator and former Art and Design Project Coordinator here in the Arts Team, has created this detailed illustration which explores the possibilities of creative enhancements to healthcare.  From music and choirs to exhibitions and art sessions, follow this dynamic journey through Arts in Health and find out what inspires you along with way!

ARTSinHEALTH - in situe with JESS SHARP-EDIT

Jess’ illustration is located on the large pillar at York Hospital’s main reception desk.  To find out more about her illustration work, click here.

SNIPPETS - STRIP of 3


2019

Artwork in York Hospital’s brand new Endoscopy Unit

Designer, Dan Savage, has created a set of artworks for the Endoscopy Unit, drawing on 14 years’ experience of creating artwork for healthcare environments.

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Dan was commissioned to work with the unit’s patients and staff, working collaboratively to create artwork themes and colour schemes to ensure that the resulting artwork was unique and appropriate for this type of facility and the local people who will be using it.

A York theme was chosen for the artwork.  Research shows that artworks that include images of nature and familiar scenes have the most health benefits; they can elicit cheerful feelings, reduce anxiety, reduce systolic blood pressure and, impressively, contribute to shorter hospital stays.

Dan commented “hospital art is not as some people might think, an optional extra. It actually does improve a patient’s wellbeing and reduce stress – and this has been proved by scientific research.”

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Dan Savage lives and works in York.  His other work includes a trail of newts at Vangarde Shopping Park and glass balconies for the new Hungate development.  To find out more, click here.  


Dying Matters Week - Doodle

Dead Good Festival Postcard-1

Local artist Stephen Lee Hodgkin, will be chatting to visitors and staff in York Hospital’s main entrance on

Monday 13th: 9:30 - 12pm

Tuesday 14th: 10:30-12:30

Wednesday 15th: 11:30-13:30

Thursday 16th: 12:30-14:30

Friday 17th: 15:00-17:00

We hope to capture moments and experiences that celebrate life encouraging visitors and staff to contribute stories and drawings to a large doodle. Postcards will also be available to add your thoughts and doodles to at Scarborough and Bridlington Hospitals. Using what we collect during the week Stephen will go onto produce an art piece for York Hospitals.

Please come along and get involved!


Illustrations create conversations in the Neurophysiology Department

Thanks to funding from the Friends of York Hospitals we’ve been able to install conversation-starting illustrations in one of the treatment rooms in York Hospital’s Neurophysiology Department.

The illustrations brighten the room, making it feel less clinical and more welcoming for our younger patients and their families. Neurophysiology Manager, Joanne Horrocks, initiated the project and is already seeing the benefits, “the art work is helping children to focus their attention when (and where) we need them to, this in turn helps us to get the best EEG recording we can.”

EEG Montage

With thanks to the Friends of York Hospitals, Tanya McClellandInch Punch Design and Harrisons Signs


Artwork installed in York Hospital's Neurosciences Department

Hoping to create a more inviting environment in the Neurosciences Department, we’ve installed a selection of artwork themed on the countryside of the local area.

Neurophysiology Manager, Joanne Horrocks said “this collection of paintings has really brightened the corridor, both staff and patients have commented on how much it has improved the surroundings”.

 

Rehomed-Paintings-from-store

With thanks to Blossom Street Gallery and Framing


Children’s Illustrations in the Emergency Department

The Trust recently refurbished York Hospital’s Emergency Department, aiming to improve the layout to help patients access the care they need more efficiently.

Working with Jen Bennison - Capital Projects Manager, we were tasked with providing bright and engaging artwork for the children’s area.

The space has been transformed with child-friendly artwork by Tanya McClelland, featuring illustrations of the local area and thought provoking questions to provide talking points for families.

 ED Montage

With thanks to Tanya McClelland, InchPunch Design and Harrisons Signs.

2018

October

Artwork in the Vascular Imaging Unit, York Hospital

The Arts Team were approached by staff in York Hospital's Vascular Imaging Unit, looking to improve their entrance corridor to create a more inviting and calming environment.  Staff selected photographs donated to the Arts Team by Amanda Dean following her recent exhibition.

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Amanda, who works in the hospital's Catering Department, said: "I'm so pleased the staff chose my photographs and can't wait to see how they look".  To see more of Amanda's work click here.

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Both the Arts Team and Vascular Imaging Unit staff would like to thank Amanda for helping to improve the environment of the department for patients, visitors and staff.


September

VACANCY

Freelance artist required in York Hospital's Cancer Care Centre. Now closed.

Click here to find out more.


July

End of Life Care Animation

In late 2017 the Trust’s End of Life Care Team enlisted our help to commission an animation.

Montage

The idea of using animation followed patient feedback on uncertainties around accessing care and the sheer overload of information when receiving a terminal diagnosis.

 

Kath Sartain, Lead Nurse for End of Life Care said: "the needs of people of all ages who are living with dying, death and bereavement, their families, carers and communities must be addressed; taking into account their priorities, preferences and wishes."

 

Working collaboratively, the Arts and End of Life Care teams commissioned Huckleberry Films. They spent time with patients, relatives and staff to create an honest, powerful and informative short film, providing an alternative introduction to available services.  The film also supports and encourages staff education in end of life care.

 

The film was generously funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity and is accessible via You Tube or the Trust website. Palliative and end of life care is a priority for our Trust, please share the animation and help us to support those affected by a terminal diagnosis.

 


Student Photography Exhibition a Success

The Arts Team's collaboration with York St John University's Photography students has produced a fantastic exhibition, on show at junction 5 of York Hospital's main corridor.   This arts and healthcare collaboration encourages emerging qualities in the students and is proving popular with patients and staff.  It also featured on York TV recently.  To find out more click here

NHS - Exhibition  nurses - sm

Photo credit: Jennifer Todman

22 Line NEWS

April

Artwork in Scarborough Outpatients

Dan Savage worked his design magic in Scarborough’s Outpatients department, creating two stunning pieces for their reception and corridor.  He said “these drawings of the iconic and instantly recognisable Scarborough views have been designed especially for Outpatients and are intended to bring a feeling of calm.”

 Outpatients Montage

This artwork has been generously funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

 22 Line NEWS

Artwork in Scarborough Orthopaedics

We’ve been working with designer, Dan Savage, on a couple of exciting projects in Scarborough Hospital.  Staff in the Orthopaedics department approached us looking for something to brighten up their waiting area.  Dan used vibrant colours and interesting bone-related facts to create these gorgeous graphic panels.

 Ortho Montage

This artwork has been generously funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

22 Line NEWS

2017

December

Children’s Clinic Sign in Scarborough

The Arts Team commissioned Kate Green a freelance Artist and Illustrator, Inch Punch Design and Blue Raptor Print to design, print and install a new sign for The Children’s Clinic. It is now hard wearing, easy to clean, bright, colourful and welcoming.

NEW-version

With thanks to HAFNEY (Hospital Arts for North East Yorkshire) and the Borough of Scarborough Mayoress’ Community Fund.

22 Line NEWS

Merry Christmas

Look out for our twinkling Christmas display on York Hospital’s main corridor, wishing all our patients, visitors and staff a very merry Christmas.

Christmas 2017 - MONTAGE

22 Line NEWS

November

Artwork donated to the Children’s Ward, York Hospital

Following his hugely successful exhibition, we were delighted to welcome photographer James Sharp and family to York Hospital’s children’s ward.  Andy Jennians, Deputy Directorate Manager of Children's Services, gave our guests a tour of the newly refurbished ward and explained how James’ generous donations will help to make further improvements that could not be funded by the NHS.

 James Sharp - presentation event on W17 - Nov 2017

During James’ exhibition he sold 12 photographic prints, raising over £400 for the Children’s ward and donating a further 3 prints to Children’s Services.  James said: “This has given me the chance to give a little back for all those times I visited hospital as a child, I am so pleased that people have taken joy from my work.”

On behalf of the Arts Team, York Teaching Hospital Charity and Children’s Services, we would like to say a huge well done and thank you to James.

 

22 Line NEWS

October

Artwork for the Mobile Chemo Unit

The Arts Team were asked by Elizabeth Walker Lead Nurse and Chemotherapy Project Manager to help improve the enviroment inside the Mobile Chemotherapy Unit.

montage unit 1

Working with five local photographers the Arts Team designed a montage that represents the many areas that the Mobile Chemotherapy Unit serves.

Many thanks to the photographers involved; Nick Ansell, James Drury, Allan Highet, Christopher Jones and Michael Oakes.

22 Line NEWS

Celebration Event for the 2018 Calendar Competition

Website banner - congratulations

The Arts Team were proud to attend the 2018 calendar celebration event hosted by Staff Benefits to thank everyone who entered this year’s competition. 

winners in montage

The Trust’s Deputy Chief Executive, Mike Proctor, gave the presentation congratulating all 12 winners.  Transport Driver, Stephen Day, was announced as the overall winner.  His entry will be used by the Patient Experience Team to promote their Night Owls Project.

 winners at event

We look forward to seeing the finished calendar shortly!

22 Line NEWS

Staff Benefits Calendar Competition Results Announced

Website banner - SB calendar comp 2018 - RESULTS

Click here to find out more

22 Line NEWS

New Artwork loaned from Paintings in Hospital

Senior Sister Amanda Reynolds approached the Arts Team to ask if we could help improve the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU) waiting area and counselling room environments on G1 in York Teaching Hospital.

Montage-for-the-website

Working with Paintings in Hospitals the staff helped select five beautiful pieces of artwork which have helped create a more calm and soothing environment for patients.

Paintings in Hospitals LOGO

22 Line MEET

Artwork installed in Stoma Care Treatment Room, York Hospital

The Arts Team helped York Hospital’s Stoma Care Nurses to improve the environment of their treatment room by framing and installing a selection of scenic photographs.

 Stoma Room - for website

The photographs were kindly donated by Salts Healthcare, a company who work together to improve the lives of people living with a stoma by providing innovative products, specialist advice and ongoing support.

The frames were generously funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

22 Line NEWS

August

The Staff Benefits calendar competition is open for entries!

A1 - SB Calendar 2018 BANNER

 To find out more, pleaseclick here.

22 Line NEWS

July

Artwork installed in York Hospital's Children's Ward

The Arts Team have been working with staff on York Hospital’s Children’s ward to coordinate new art work for the bedrooms.  The Trust’s Estates Team freshened up the walls with a lick of paint and a bright new colour scheme, ready for the addition of child-friendly illustrations.

The project was funded by The Christian Blandford Fund, following a successful grant application by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

The Christian Blandford Fund is a registered charity supporting local NHS hospitals to improve the comfort of children and their families during prolonged stays in hospital.  Aware that many of the larger specialist hospitals receive large amounts of funding for huge items, they work towards the little things that can make a huge difference too.

The Arts Team commissioned local illustrator Tanya McClelland to produce the artwork, working with patients, visitors and staff to choose the final designs.  Tanya’s playful illustration was perfect for the project, with designs taking inspiration from parks and outdoor spaces across the city of York and the beaches of Yorkshires East Coast.  She explains:

“I’m originally from County Down in Northern Ireland, and live in the lovely city of York. When I'm not working or running around having adventures with my little boy Charlie, you'll find me up in my teeny studio drawing, sewing, painting, and making prints. Making art is such a vital role in my life; it helps me unwind and keeps my head and heart in check. I happen to create 'uplifting' illustrations - I'm naturally drawn to create bright and playful scenes.

“Having spent quite a portion of my childhood on hospital wards I fully appreciate how welcoming and cheering a bright picture on the wall can be! The series of hand drawn illustrations I produced celebrate fun activities such as cycling, spotting hot air balloons, visiting the ducks and summer picnics etc. Hopefully they will evoke happy memories of days out with family at places around York that the children will recognise and feel familiar with. I feel very privileged to have been given this opportunity and hope the children of York Teaching Hospital like their new art!”

To see more of Tanya’s illustrations, visit her Instagram page by clicking here, or follow her @tanyamcclelland. Thanks to Inchpunch Design for all their hard work converting the illustrations and putting them in circles and Harrisons for printing and fitting the vinyl’s.

May

Portakabin Artwork in the Cancer Care Centre

Artist, Anne Hutchison, works in the Arts Team as a Distraction Therapist for York Hospital’s Cancer Care Centre.  Anne hosts art sessions for those affected by cancer, providing a safe place for people to share experiences whilst working on a range of arts projects. 

Anne recently worked with participants to create an artwork made from hundreds of donated keys.  Portakabin donated the keys, along with a very generous £150 towards the project!

To find out more about participation art, please click here.

Artwork in Stroke Ward

The Arts Team worked with the sister on our stroke ward to choose this uplifting artwork for their newly refurbished day room.  The room will be used to provide activities for patients recovering from stroke.

Photo credit: Elly Ross

April

Artwork in the Surgical Assessment Unit, York Hospital

York Hospital’s new Surgical Assessment Unit has been finished off perfectly with the addition of six vinyl photographic prints.

 

Photo credit: Elly Ross

Nursing staff approached the Arts Team looking for landscape themed photography to enhance the environment for patients in the waiting area.

We are proud to have worked with David Kenward, a local photographer with Down’s Syndrome.  David is passionate about wildlife and wild places and this can be seen in his beautiful photography.

To visit David’s website, please click here.

February

Refurbishments in Ward 16’s Enhanced Recovery Suite

The Enhanced Recovery Suite is situated on ward 16 of York Hospital.  It’s a place where patients are encouraged to take time away from the clinical environment of their bed bays and spend time with other patients, family, friends, all with the aim of promoting recovery.

Before this transformation, the room was tired and had become more of a meeting space for staff than a calming environment for patients.  The Arts Team worked with the hospital’s Estates and Purchasing Teams to create this bright engaging environment, with carefully considered furniture and continuous input from staff within in the ward.

Artwork has been kindly donated on long term loan from Pete Turpin, a patient of the hospital who is always so grateful for the excellent care he receives. 

The project was generously funded by the Friends of York Hospitals.

January

Malton Diagnostic Centre Artwork by Dan Savage

Over the past year the Arts Team have been working with the Trust’s Capital Projects Team to create artwork for the new one stop Urology clinic in Malton.

  Artist, Dan Savage, was commissioned to create a series of graphic pieces to improve the environment for patients, visitors and staff.

Malton Restaurant Community Artwork

The Restaurant in Malton Hospital is looking much brighter with the addition of a series of large abstract artworks, created by year 13 students from Malton College.  Artist, Dan Savage, conducted workshops with the students, encouraging them to consider the work of Henri Matisse in their colourful collages.

Henri Matisse was confined to a wheelchair in his late sixties following surgery for cancer, but went on to produce a whole new body of artwork known as ‘gouaches decoupes’  He felt energised by the spontaneity of the technique saying, “Only what I created after the illness constitutes my real self: free, liberated.”

This project was generously funded by Hospital Arts for North East Yorkshire (HAFNEY) and Ryedale District Council.

New Artwork in Patients Advice Liaison Service (PALS) York

The new PALS office in York Hospital has received a beautiful selection of artwork, making it a much more welcoming environment for patients, visitors and staff.  The artwork has been kindly donated by York Photographic Society and artist, Gill Douglas.  Framing was generously funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters. They provide a point of contact for patients, their families and their carers.

New Artwork in Scarborough’s Bereavement Suite

The Bereavement Suite in Scarborough Hospital has been gradually updated to reflect the same calm and welcoming environment found in its counterpart in York.  The windows have natural patterned vinyls, replicated in the artwork on the wall.

Chinese New Year by Creative Corner

The Arts in York Hospital are delighted to display this beautiful artwork in recognition of the year of the cockerel - Kung Hei Fat Choy!


 

Members of the Cancer Care Centre’s Creative Corner have thoroughly enjoyed creating these cockerels in celebration of Chinese New Year - the year of the cockerel.

Our resident project artist, Anne Hutchison, runs the creative sessions on Tuesday afternoons between 1pm – 4pm for anyone affected by cancer.  A bit of creativity helps people to feel better and takes the mind off things, so if you’re interested please pop along.  There’s no need to book and the sessions are free!

To find out more about participation arts in York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, please click here.

Chinese New Year falls on 28th January this year, with people celebrating the year of the cockerel. 

According to the Chinese zodiac cockerels are courageous, hardworking, selfish and eccentric. They are thirsty for knowledge and skilled at what they do. However, they tend to seem boastful to others.

If you’re born in any of these years then you’re a cockerel: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017

2016

December

Thank you to all our Christmas musicians and donors!

As our Christmas music schedule comes to an end we’d like to thank all our amazing musicians who donated their time to bring a little Christmas cheer to the patients, visitors and staff of York Hospital. 

We’d also like to thank everyone who donated to York Teaching Hospital Charity during our musical performances.  We raised over £400 in total, all of which will support further arts projects, helping to improve the environment of our hospitals.

Staff Benefits Calendar Photography Competition
Celebration Event



We were delighted to see so many entrants and winners at the celebration event for the 2017 calendar photography competition.  Winners were awarded a framed copy of their photo by Mike Proctor, Deputy Chief Executive of York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.  Mike spoke very highly of the standard of entries and congratulated everyone who took part.

We’re looking forward to exhibiting a selection of entries in York and Scarborough Hospitals early next year and can’t wait to start working on the photography competition for the 2018 calendar!

Very well done to all!

November

Good luck Jo!

Art and Design Project Coordinator, Jo Davis, left the Arts Team on Friday 25th November 2016.  Jo has worked with us since our hospital’s merged to become York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in 2012, with many years’ experience at HAFNEY before and during this time.

Jo has coordinated some fantastic projects over the years and we wish her all the best for the future.

Artwork installed at Scarborough Chemotherapy Unit

New artwork has been installed at the Chemo Unit on the north side of Scarborough Hospital.  Artists Rachel Welford and Adrian Riley worked together on the project which was generously funded by Awards 4 All.

“The text on these windows and the panels outside were created by patients using découpé (or ‘cut-up technique’) with well-known poems. The poems were cut into individual words and re-assembled to form new texts. The idea was used during the ‘dada’ movement in the 1920s and has since been used by writers, artists and musicians such as William Burroughs, Thom Yorke (Radiohead) and David Bowie. 

“The text then formed the basis of this artwork which plays with light, shadow and reflection, making a collage of the immediate environment in the same way that the cut-up poems are reassembled to give a new perspective on something familiar.”

- Artist, Rachel Welford

 To find out more about Rachel Welford and Adrian Riley, please click on their names.

Staff Benefits calendar photography competition (for 2017 calendar)

The Staff Benefits and Arts in York Hospital Teams joined forces once again this year to design the 2017 Staff Benefits calendar. 

Following on from the success of last year’s photography competition it seemed only right to run this again for the 2017 calendar.

We are delighted to announce our 12 winners and would like to thank everyone who took part; the standard of photographs was outstanding!

To read more, please click here.

The Golden Rule by 16th York Fulford Brownies

The Arts in York Hospital are delighted to present this display in celebration of York Interfaith week .


 

York Interfaith is a forum for communication between religious groups.  Active in York since 1989, their aims are to contribute to the promotion of mutual respect and understanding between faith communities and to respond to the new and changing ethnic and faith mix of the population in York.  

This display is based on the ‘Golden Rule’.  This is the principle of treating others as one would wish to be treated oneself. 

The Arts Team visited 16th York Fulford Brownies to discuss the Golden Rule, what it means to the Brownies and how this links with people of other faiths.  Sue Laurence, Brown Owl, said, “it is interesting to learn how this is interpreted by different faiths and to see the Brownies inspired to create their artwork”.

York Interfaith week runs between 13 – 20 November 2016.  To find out more, please click here.

October

Aesthetica Short Film Festival

Promotional Screenings in York Hospital

This October the Arts in York Hospital were proud to team up with Aesthetica Short Film Festival to bring a selection of short films to patients, visitors and staff.

The films were shown in The Hub in Ellerby’s restaurant between 17 and 21October 2016 and included both animation and documentaries.

We had some great feedback from the event:

“Opens up peoples horizons”

“It was amazing too feel like you’re taken away from your work place and switch off for a short while.  Would love if this became a regular thing.”

“Takes my mind away from work.  I love films and they help me relax.”

The Aesthetica Short Film Festival runs from 3 – 6 November this year, showcasing a vast selection of films screened at venues across the city of York.  To find out more, please click here.

Happy Diwali!

The Arts in York Hospital are delighted to present this display in celebration of Diawli, the festival of light.

The display features a rangoli pattern made by Suki Tattar.  Suki has made her rangoli pattern to show to school children in her educational visits across York.

Rangoli is an art form from India in which patterns are created on the floor in living rooms or courtyards using materials such as coloured rice, dry flour, coloured sand or flower petals.  Designs are passed from one generation to the next, keeping both the art form and the tradition alive.

The festival of Diwali extends over five days and celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, although the actual legends that go with the festival are different in different parts of India.

Diwali is known as the 'festival of lights' because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called diyas. These lamps are placed in rows in windows, doors and outside buildings and are lit to help the goddess Lakshmi find her way into people's homes.

This display will be in our 3D exhibition space on York Hospital’s main corridor between late October and early November 2016.

Participation Art in Harrogate and Easingwold Renal Units

Our Art Development Officer, Van Nong, has recently completed a successful six month residency at Harrogate Renal Unit, creating artworks with patients while on dialysis. Van is now beginning a further six months with patients in Easingwold.

The service is part of York Teaching Hospital’s commitment to arts in health.  Our ability to expand the service to other satellite units follows on from the success of the arts in York renal unit.

Stunning new Sunshine Room

Staff from ward 25 have been liaising with the Arts Team to improve the environment of their day room, better known as the Sunshine Room.  Mel Harrison has been working tirelessly with her team to fundraise for the refurbishment of the room, with their elderly patients needs in mind.

The room has been decorated to a new colour scheme with nostalgic photographs of York on the walls, a retro music system, new furniture and home comforts to help patients escape from the clinical feel of the ward.

New music sessions offered to patients

Music Education Group have begun working with the Arts Team to bring music sessions to the patients of York Hospital.  To find out more, please click here.


September

New Music Wednesdays Coordinators for 2016

Ellis Walsh and Millie Saunders join the Arts Team as Music Wednesdays volunteers from York St John University.  To find out more, please click here.


August

Improvements in Dermatology

The Arts Team have been working with York Hospital’s Dermatology Team to improve the environment of their department.  Their dull colour scheme was transformed using pinks, greys and whites to brighten the space;  cluttered walls were de-cluttered with the use of large notice boards; welcoming vinyls and artworks were also added.

The project was part funded by the Friends of York Hospital.

New artwork in Oncology

The Arts Team are delighted to have been introduced to local artist, Pete Turpin by York Hospital's Oncology department.  Pete is a patient of York hospital and has donated several of his artworks for display here.

His most recent pieces are two beautiful abstract canvases – hard to believe they’ve been done completely by hand!

Peter Turpin trained as a painter at the York School of Art and studied Graphic Design at Edinburgh College of Art during a five year spell in Scotland.  On returning to York, Peter formed a Graphic Design studio.  Today he is senior partner of Peter Turpin Associates, Designers and Colour Printers.

The Arts Team are really grateful to all our artists who generously donate their work for the enjoyment of our patients, visitors and staff across the Trust. 

Revised Arts Strategy

The Arts Team have recently written a revised Arts Strategy for 2016 – 2019.  To download it, please click here.

July

New Artwork installed in Radiology

There’s excitement in the Radiology department this month as their new artwork is installed.  The collection titled ‘Full Circle’ consists of 19 light boxes spread throughout the department’s corridors and waiting areas.  Each light box has a beautifully lit photograph of a member of the team outside of their hospital role. 

Interestingly the artist, Chairman Kato, worked as a doctor for several years before making the transition to full time artist, helping him to understand the importance of enhancing the environment for patients, visitors and staff as well as enabling the staff to play a huge part in its selection and creation.

“I suggested I take portraits of people from the department- the staff who provide such a great, efficient service for the 200,000 people who pass through their doors every year. I thought it would be fitting to print them as transparencies and mount them on light boxes in reference to the fact that radiology deals in imagery.

“It took me some time to win people over but once I did, it was extremely rewarding. I was taken all over York by a wide range of staff members. I got to know what made them tick, what they were about, who they were.”  -The Artist, Chairman Kato

The project was funded as part of a Capital Planning scheme, with match funding from Arts Council England. 

To find out more about Chairman Kato, please click here.

New Artwork in the Internet Lounge, Ellerby’s

In June the Trust’s Catering Manager, Pierre Gomez approached the Arts team with an idea.  One of his staff members, Amanda Dean, is a keen photographer and he was eager to show off her talent within Ellerby’s Restaurant.  Pierre, Amanda and the Arts Team selected 5 of Amanda’s photos on a similar theme and design to those already found in the Booth’s in Ellerby’s.  The new additions sit beautifully in the Internet Lounge.

Amanda has worked for York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in York’s Catering department for the last 16 years.

“I took up photography in February 2015 as I needed a more gentler hobby than motorcycling, bitten by the photography bug I invested my money in a good quality camera and lenses, then completed a foundation course in Photography which taught me to use a camera manually.

“It has given me great confidence in the ability to achieve great results from my own doing, as I have never really been a very confident person  and suffered from this throughout my life.

"I have had the privilege to photograph a colleagues daughter’s wedding, also had a couple of photographs in The York Press since starting.  And a big thanks to Pierre Gomez and the Arts Team who has given me the opportunity to show my work.”

- Amanda Dean, caterer and photographer

Amanda Dean with one of her photos in the Internet Lounge, Ellerby's York.

New Artwork installed in the Acorn Unit, Ward 18

The Arts Team have been working with staff from the Acorn Unit on Ward 18.  The Unit wanted to improve the environment of their very clinical feeling examination room.  Staff members chose beautiful vector illustrations of birds, printed on large format vinyl.

The project was funded by the Child Health York Guardian Angels fund.

Vinyl Designs in Children’s Wards

Ward 17 and 18 received some vibrant new vinyls this month.  Continuing the designs on the nurses stations, the Arts Team installed further colourful circles around the doorways to the wards (both inside and out).

The hope is to make this design recognisable for children, hopefully developing it further to become a form of way finding.

York Teaching Hospital Charity Roaring 20’s Ball

The Arts in York Hospital were delighted to be involved in York Teaching Hospital Charity’s ball again this year.  We worked together with a team of students from the Fine Art course at York St John University to create decorations for the event, all in the theme of the 1920’s.

We would like to thank our dedicated students: Emily Stones, Karla Dawson, Paisley Fairhurst and a special thank you to Laura Camplejohn who helped to set up on the night.

We would also like to thank the artists who donated pieces for auction: Steven Parker, Milena Dragic, June Hardy and Julie Lightburn.

The ball raised £11,000 which will be used to fund the Dementia café on ward 37.  The Café will make a huge difference to patients admitted to Ward 37, their families and our ward staff.

New Artworks in Oncology Haematology

York Hospital’s Onc/Haem department recently received new artwork for its corridors and waiting areas.  The Arts Team worked together with patients and staff to choose a selection of new pieces, most of which were funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

New artworks include:

  • Large acrylic panels designed by surface pattern designer, Rebecca Stoner.  Rebecca was commissioned to create meadow themed designs to reflect the digital wallpaper recently installed using a donation from a patient’s family. 
  • Staff photography by Paul Whittle, Steve Hunt, Ian Smith, Eloise Rawling, Rachel Dunn and Hannah Bailey.
  • Prints by North Yorkshire artist, Lucy Pittaway.
  • Donated artworks from Catherine King and Peter Turpin.

The Arts Team would like to thank everyone involved in this project on behalf of all the patients, visitors and staff who visit the department.

June

Celebrating Our LGBT Community

This June the Arts in York Hospital have teamed up with the hospital's Equality and Diversity Facilitator to celebrate our LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Trans) community.

Here in York Hospital we have our own LGBT Staff Network, providing a safe environment to raise LGBT issues, provide information and contribute to development activities across the Trust, among many other things. 

To find out more about our LGBT Staff Network please click here.

We will also be attending York Pride, held on Saturday 18th June 2016.  To find out more about York Pride, please click here.

May

The Arts Team say goodbye to Music Wednesdays Coordinators, Nathan and Liam

Wednesday 18th May brought both joy and sadness as our York St John University Music Wednesdays Coordinators performed for the last time.

Nathan O’Grady and Liam Cooke have been volunteering with the Arts Team over the past year to bring fortnightly music into the hospital.  They’ve brought a range of sounds, instruments and ensembles to patients, visitors and staff on our busy corridors and wards and improved the environment for hundreds of truly thankful people.

Nathan and Liam will be greatly missed and the team would like to thank them for their enthusiasm, dedication, passion and outstanding performances.  We wish them the best of luck in their future careers and hope to welcome them back for the odd performance too!

Scenes of Bridlington by Kat Wood

On 17th May 2016 staff members and Yorkshire textile artist, Kat Wood, gathered in Bridlington Hospital’s canteen to celebrate the installation of their beautiful new artwork.

Kat Wood created four textile landscape pieces made entirely from dyed and felted merino wool, using a variety of wet felting and needle felting techniques.

Kat worked closely with staff members throughout the project, from choosing the theme ‘Scenes of Bridlington’ to inviting them to contribute photos of the area to inspire the finished pieces.  She also collaborated with Bridlington School, giving their art students an opportunity to work alongside a professional artist on a live brief.

To find out more about the artist, Kat Wood, please click here.

Head and Neck Children’s Room Refurbishment

The Arts in York Hospital is delighted to announce the completion of the Children’s room in York Hospital’s Head and Neck department!

Teams from across the organisation worked together to create this bright and interactive space.  The out dated room was stripped of cupboards, old toys and chairs to make way for a multitude of exciting new elements!

These include a multi-coloured light strip and tactile boards for younger children and those with sensory needs; artwork; two iPads equipped with numerous popular games; new seating and flooring.

The room is complemented by its stunning artwork, created by surface pattern designer, Rebecca Stoner.  Rebecca worked closely with the team to create an engaging and exciting array of vinyls, capturing the essence of the department in the finer details.

We would like to thank the Friends of York Hospital for their generous support in funding this refurbishment.

Scarborough Hospital receives Funding

In early May, Jo Davis, Art and Design Project Coordinator for our East Coast hospitals, was awarded £175 from the Mayoress’ fund in Scarborough.

The funding will be used to commission new welcome signage for the Children’s Clinic at Scarborough Hospital.  Jo is currently looking for further funding to enhance the corridor leading to the clinic.

Jo applied for this grant through Hospital Arts for North East Yorkshire (HAFNEY), a charity that has worked with the Trust for the past 16 years, funding projects to improve the visual environment of hospitals in Bridlington, Malton, Whitby and Scarborough.

March

Down’s Syndrome Awareness Exhibition Celebration and Thank You Event!

Monday 21st March 2016 marked the 11th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day.  The Arts in York Hospital marked the occasion with an official celebration and thank you event for all those involved in their beautiful Down’s syndrome awareness exhibition on the hospital’s main corridor.

Back row – Sue Clayton, artist; Joe Sharp, model; Dan Sharp, photographer
Front row – David Kenward, photographer; James Clayton, model

The exhibition provides a fascinating insight into what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities. It includes paintings and photographs by local artists and photographers.

James Taylor, Medical Director at York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, spoke at the event.   James said: “We’re very proud to be hosting this exhibition and supporting World Down Syndrome Day. Our thanks go to everyone who has contributed, from the artists themselves to the inspiring people pictured in these beautiful paintings and photographs and all those sharing information to help us raise awareness.”

On display are paintings by Sue Clayton, who has a son with Down syndrome. Sue is a York based fine artist with a large collection of portraits of people with Down syndrome. 

Sue said: “I hope that people enjoy looking at the paintings as much as I enjoyed creating them. I try to let the vibrancy and character of the models shine through in my portraits. My son James has been the inspiration behind my exhibitions.”

Photographer Dan Sharp has produced a series of photographs especially for the exhibition. He has worked with local people with Down syndrome visiting subjects at their own home and supplying each of them with a disposable camera which they used to capture some of their own photographs.  These photos are also on display within the exhibition.

Also exhibiting is David Kenward, a photographer who has Down syndrome. David attended mainstream school throughout his education and has gone on to become a founder member of the arts and crafts Co-operative, Blueberry Academy. In 2012 David became involved with Heart & Sold, an initiative to showcase the artistic work of people with Down syndrome.

The exhibition will be on the main corridor until 2 May 2016.  More information about the exhibition and the artists can be found here.

February

York Hospital’s Staff Choir feature on BBC Radio York

In February the staff choir were contacted by Alex South, a Broadcast Assistant for BBC Radio York.  Alex was keen to know more about our choir and came along one lunch time to make a recording for his series on workplace choirs.  The series featured three choirs in total - The City of York Council Workplace Choir; The John Lewis Workplace Choir and our very own Hospital Choir.

On Wednesday 17th February 2016 at 3.15pm our choir featured on BBC Radio York in a very inspiring and uplifting piece all about our workplace choir and what it means to us.

We’re very grateful to have been involved and hope others within York Hospital will be inspired to join our choir; perhaps we’ll have inspired those outside the NHS to start their own choirs in their place of work too!

To find out more about York Hospital's staff choir, click here.

To listen to the feature, please click here and scroll to 3hours 16 minutes.  This link will expire in March 2016.

Kung Hei Fat Choy!

Happy Chinese New Year!

In celebration of Chinese New Year, the Arts in York Hospital are delighted to present this vibrant display! 

As the Chinese use the lunar calendar for their festivals the date of their new year changes from year to year.  This year it falls on the 8th February with celebrations traditionally running for fifteen days.

According to Chinese zodiac 2016 is the Year of the Monkey. The Year of the Monkey starts from 8th February 2016 (Chinese New Year) and lasts until 27th January 2017.  Your Chinese Zodiac sign is derived from your birth year, according to the Chinese lunar calendar.

Monkeys are intelligent and entertaining but also dangerous and easily discouraged. Because of their magnetic personality they are very popular.

January

Kat Hetherington Leaves the Team

The Arts Team are sad to announce that Kat Hetherington has left the Trust.  Kat worked in various roles within the Arts Team, from arts volunteer at university right through to Art and Design Development Manager.  The Team won’t be the same without Kat and we wish her every success in her new venture!

New Artwork in Ward 27

The male and female waiting areas in Ward 27 recently received new artwork as part of a Capital Planning project to improve the environment for patients.  Artwork was purchased from Steve Williams, David Lyon, Giuliana Lazzerini and Catherine King.

Mosaics Installed in Outpatients Department

A set of beautiful mosaic artworks have been installed in York Hospital’s Outpatients department.  The mosaics sit in the waiting areas on Corridor B and C.  They have been lovingly created and donated by mosaic artists from the British Association for Modern Mosaic (BAMM).    

BAMM was founded in 1999 and exists to promote, encourage and support excellence in contemporary mosaic art and to raise public awareness of modern mosaic art through exhibitions, publications, events and educational activities. 

On behalf of all our patients, visitors and staff, the Arts Team would like to thank the members of BAMM who donated their mosaic artworks for the waiting areas in York Hospital’s Outpatients department.

2015

December

New Artwork in Oncology and Haematology Waiting Area

The Oncology and Haematology department were delighted to receive a pretty new artwork for their waiting area in the form of digital wallpaper.  The piece was created by Rebecca Stoner and funded by a donation from a lovely lady wanting to show her appreciation for the care and support the department gave when her husband was unwell.

Christmas Musical Performances

This year has been another great year for Christmas music, with the Arts team welcoming several amazing choirs and ensembles to perform for patients, visitors and staff in York Hospital.  The team were also impressed with the generosity of everyone who helped us to raise over £300 for the Arts fund within the York Teaching Hospital Charity.

Thank you so much to all our choirs!  If you’d like to find out more, please click here to see our music page.

Happy Christmas!

The Arts in York Hospital would like to wish all patients, visitors and staff a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

We’ve been super busy this festive season, planning and running workshops in York and Scarborough where we invited everyone to pop along and get crafty, creating a set of beautiful handmade decorations to adorn our Christmas trees. 

Our famous knitted chains are back by popular demand and we’ve created a magical grotto in our 3D exhibition space on York’s main corridor, incorporating Monty the penguin (famous from the 2014 John Lewis advert) and our wire reindeer created by patients in the Cancer Care Centre with artist, Anne Hutchison.

The Arts team will be welcoming several musicians back to the hospital for special Christmas performances too.  Click here to see the schedule.  Pictures will be uploaded in January - to see our music page, please click here.

‘Tree of Celebration’ by John Walker

The Arts Team are proud to present the ‘Tree of Celebration’.  York Teaching Hospital Charity asked the team to commission this beautiful tree as a place for friends and relatives to celebrate the lives of loved ones passed. 

The tree was created by local metal worker, John Walker.  John has also provided a selection of stainless steel flowers and leaves which can be purchased, engraved and hung on the tree as in memory donations, with all proceeds going back into the valuable work of the charity.

The tree is situated in the courtyard between junction 6 and 7 on York Hospital’s main corridor.  To find out more about John Walker, please click here.

Internet Lounge, Ellerby's Restaurant

The Arts Team have been working with the Staff Benefits Team to create the Internet Lounge in Ellerby’s Restaurant.  Staff Benefits purchased two tablets for the room and the Arts Team added the finishing touches with window vinyls and signage.

New Graphics for the HYMS Room in Bridlington

New Main Entrance Doors

The Estates Team in York Hospital have been working hard recently to install the new main entrance doors.  The Arts Team provided the window manifestations, showing the Trust values in a colourful design, as seen on all York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust sites.

November

Happy Diwali!

In celebration of the Hindu festival of Diwali the Arts in York Hospital have created this display.  The photographs show some of the celebrations enjoyed over the Diwali period and have been provided by Avijit Datta, a Consultant Physician here at York Hospital. 

The stunning photographs have been brought to life using light boxes, further connecting the exhibition to the festival of light.

October

100 Bunnies by Jacob Lomax – Phase 2

From the moment Jacob Lomax’s 100 bunnies went into the 3D exhibition space on York Hospital’s main corridor it was destined to be a success. The quirky colourful display attracted much attention and when it came to selling the first 50 they flew off the shelves!

The remaining 50 were taken to various wards around the hospital where patients were invited to choose their favourite. The response from patients and nurses alike was amazing.

Our thanks and praise goes to Jacob for all his efforts with this brilliant project which not only raised funds towards future art projects but also brought joy to those who need it most.

Calendar Competition Presentation

The presentation event to celebrate the achievements of both the winners and runners up in the Staff Benefits calendar photography competition was a huge success.  Pat Crowley hosted the event, presenting the winners with a framed copy of their photograph to keep.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the project, we can’t wait to see the printed calendars!

Staff Benefits Calendar Competition

The Staff Benefits calendar photography competition has now closed and the winners have been selected.  To find out more and to view the winners, please click here.

September

Arts Map

The ‘Walks of Art’ map has been put together by the Arts Team and the Wellness Team as a fun way for patients, visitors and staff to enjoy the benefits of walking whilst discovering the vast selection of beautiful artworks here in York Hospital.

Walking supports your physical and emotional health and is an easy way to get light activity into your day. By staying active we are helping our bones, joints, heart and lungs to stay in good shape. Taking time out to walk also helps focus and calm the mind, promoting good emotional wellbeing.

We hope these walks will encourage people to build more activity into their daily routine and maybe even inspire them to get creative and develop their own artwork.

You can collect a 'Walks of Art' map from the plaque (pictured above) on the black pillar behind the information desk in the main entrance.

Alternatively, you can download one here.

Ward 17 and 18 Vinyls Installed

Tha Arts Team created these colourful vinyls for the walls and cupboards behind the nurses stations in Children's Wards, 17 and 18.

Organ Donor Memorials installed in York and Scarborough Hospitals

On the Wings of Hope

This beautiful piece of sculptural work was commissioned by the Trust Organ Donation Committee. It is in place to remember all of the individuals and their families who have given the gift of life to another person, and to thank all of those who have joined the Organ Donor Register.



‘On the Wings of Hope’ was created by artist Salina Somalya in 2015. Before starting on the designs, Salina researched the transplant process, talking to recipients of donated organs, clinicians and family members of those who have donated organs to others. It was through this process of research and exploration that she came up with the idea of the wings.

“The design is an illustration of the fragile nature of the transplant process, expressed through the delicate forms of the feathers. These collectively illustrate the sense of rising for the ‘fire’ of pre transplant life, like a phoenix, and spreading one’s wings as one is set free to live a fuller life. The road to recovery is tough but the result is momentous and gives recipients renewed lives.

The words and phrases subtly placed on the feathers were collected from letters written by transplant recipients to their donors, as I feel it hi-lights the enormous gift given and the success of organ donation.”

The feathers are made from aluminium and each one has been hand coloured using dyes and inks. The mix of coloured feathers and golden feathers represent the recipients and the donors respectively.

Organ donation is giving an organ or tissue to help someone who needs a transplant. Transplants can save or greatly enhance the lives of other people, but this relies on donors and their families agreeing to donate. We hope that this piece of artwork will encourage people to learn more about organ donation, to make their decision about donation and discuss this with family and friends. To find out more or to join the Organ Donor Register please click here .

St Monica’s receives new artwork

The Arts in York Hospital have been working with St Monica’s Hospital in Easingwold to brighten up their collection of artwork.  As part of the project many of the existing pieces were re-framed and several new pieces were purchased.

The project was generously funded by the League of Friends of St Monica’s Hospital.

Bed Managers Office

The Arts Team were approached by the Capital Planning Team to create door vinyls and a panoramic piece to complement the new Bed Managers office.

The Team chose to create a photo montage of areas within the Trust.  Focusing on the key message ‘Our Patients at the centre of everything we do’.

The montage was created using photographic donations from the following individuals and photographic societies: Ralph Whitty; York Photographic Society; Forest of Galtres Photographic Society; Selby Camera Club.

August

Your Hospital's Got Talent 2015

Following the success of the 2015 ‘Your Hospital’s Got Talent’ exhibition, the Arts Team has once again been asking staff ‘have you got a talent or hobby that you’re proud of?’

It’s been an absolute joy to see all the different talents come in and I’m sure you’ll join me in saying we really do have an amazing bunch working here in York Trust!

The exhibition will be on display in the Junction 3 gallery space of York Hospital’s main corridor from 27th August.  The exhibition will then move to Scarborough from 13th October until November. 

To view all 27 entries online, please click here.

July

Friends of York Hospitals Courtyard receives new artwork from York St John University students

The Arts in York Hospital has been delighted to work with Alix Dalton, Elle Jeanes and Claire Harrison on this project to bring new artworks into this courtyard. The delightful Rainbow Rabbits and the painted backdrop behind them were created by three Fine Art students in their second year of study at York St John University. The rabbits and their story were created by the students to bring colour and fun into this space for children and adults alike.

To download and read 'The Rainbow Rabbits' story, please click here.

Cancer Care Centre Reindeer gets a Make-Over

Patients and carers of the Cancer Care Centre’s Creative Corner have worked with artist, Anne Hutchison, to transform one of their reindeers.  The reindeer found fame at Christmas time when she took shape as a chicken wire sculpture adorned with sparkling jewells. 

This summer she begins a new life as a beautifully colourful and weatherproof version of her former self.  You can find her outside in the Cancer Care Centre’s courtyard area.

June

Artwork by Changing Lives

The Arts in York Hospital is delighted to present this collaborative artwork by Changing Lives, a support group offering abstinence-based, structured, day treatment for individuals suffering from drug or alcohol addiction.


The Art groups at Changing Lives are part of the therapeutic programme. These groups can really help people express themselves, connect and communicate. This helps people to not only understand their addiction to substances but build a substance free recovery. This piece of work was created by a group in treatment to reflect an element of what recovery means to them.

“Here at Changing Lives Oaktrees we aim to support people in stopping their cycle of addiction; helping to rebuild their lives and enabling people to give back to the communities in which they live.”

This artwork can be found on the Hospital's main corridor near Junction 7.  For more information about Changing Lives, please click here.

April

Fundraising and Volunteering Hub

The Arts Team joined forces with York Teaching Hospital Charity to create window vinyls for the brand new Fundraising and Volunteering Hub in the main entrance of York Hospital.

The design follows the same theme as the Donations Wall, using the vibrant pink flowers.  Photographs of people partaking in various fundraising and volunteering activities sit within the larger flowers to provide an insight into the work the charity does and encourage people to get involved.

For more information on York Teaching Hospital Charity, please click here.

Happy Easter!

An ‘Egg-cellent’ Easter Display from Human Resources

This collection of weird and wonderful Easter eggs have all been decorated by members of York Hospital’s Human Resources (HR) department. The Arts in York Hospital Team invited staff to take home a polystyrene egg to decorate after HR manager Julie Oldfield suggested a fun egg decorating competition for the department. 

The results were too good not to share!

The Arts Team decided such  creativity and imagination should not go unnoticed and have created this festive display for all to see .

We hope that you enjoy looking at the ‘egg-clectic’ bunch as much as we all enjoyed making them. 

March

Memorial Trees Installed in Several Trust Sites

Free standing and wall mounted sculptural artwork was created by artist Matt Coe to remember and celebrate the lives of members of staff who are no longer with us.

As time passes teams within Bridlington and Scarborough Hospital's can request that additional names are added to their sculptural trees if a member of their team passes away.

The Trust commissioned this piece in 2014, the project was completed with the support from Staff Benefits and funded by York Teaching Hospital Charity.

For more information, please contact Staff Benefits.

February

Happy Chinese New Year!

In celebration of Chinese New Year, Jess Sharp of the Arts in York Hospital has created this vibrant display.  Working along a recycled theme Jess used found materials, cartons and scrap to build this colourful Chinese dragon.

As the Chinese use the lunar calendar for their festivals the date of their new year changes from year to year.  This year it falls on the 19th February with celebrations traditionally running for fifteen days.

Every year has one of 12 animals assigned to it. This year is the year of the goat, so anyone born in 2015 is aligned to that animal, as is anyone born in 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943 and 1931.

The Goat is said to prefer peace, is most comfortable at home, and is artistic but resistant to change. Lucky numbers are 3, 4 and 9. It is best matched to Rabbit, Horse or Pig.

The Hub

The Arts Team were approached by the Staff Benefits and Wellbeing Team to brand up their new room in Ellerby’s Restaurant.  The room will be used by staff and external companies to promote health and well being opportunities for staff members and their families and is available to book.  The Arts Team have designed a back wall graphic, window vinyls and explanatory panel, all in keeping with the Staff Benefits Team branding.

January

Head and Neck Quiet Room

The Arts Team have worked closely with staff from the Head and Neck department, maintenance and purchasing to transform a small office into a quiet space to be used for conversations around cancer, funded by Macmillan Cancer Support.  The room can also be used as a quiet space and an area for breastfeeding mothers. 

The room is complemented by a Macmillan Cancer Support inspired colour scheme, improved lighting and contemporary furnishings, and artwork sourced from a local York artist.

Endoscopy

The Arts Team are proud to reveal the recently updated Endoscopy Unit.  With particular focus on patient experience and environment the team worked closely with staff of the department to make much needed improvements, deciding on scenes of York as a theme.

A digital wallpaper of York Minster has been applied to the wall behind reception, newspapers are now provided and a fish tank has been installed in both the male and female waiting areas. A colour scheme was chosen to complement the existing furnishings and the York Press kindly donated a selection of archive photographs to create a talking point for patients and visitors.

Artwork in Ellerby's Restaurant

As you may be aware, York Hospital’s restaurant received a huge make over in 2014, returning with a fresh new style and name to go with it. The Arts Team added the finishing touches to Ellerby’s Restaurant with a collection of five photographs which hang individually above each dining booth. They also installed a large graphic panel with word cloud, words for which were chosen by staff members to represent the newly refurbished restaurant.

Monty the penguin comes to York Hospital!

You may recognise Monty from the John Lewis Christmas advert of 2014, which showed him and his best friend Sam grow in friendship and love.

As the Christmas campaign has now finished, the staff at John Lewis thought he might like to make new friends with the patients, visitors and staff of York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

You can find Monty on the main corridor of York Hospital until mid February when he moves to his more permanent home on the Children’s ward.


2014

December

Handmade Christmas Decoration Workshops

The Arts Team had a very festive couple of days in December, offering staff members and visitors the opportunity to help make decorations for the Christmas trees in York, Bridlington and Scarborough.

The drop in workshops offered quick tasks for those on a tight schedule and more in-depth projects for those who were able to stay and enjoy for longer. We hope that you all enjoy exploring the handmade treasures on each of the three trees.


Artworks in Breast Imaging waiting room

 The Arts in York Hospital is pleased to announce the arrival of a beautiful selection of photographic prints by photographer Steve Hunt who is also a Sonographer within the department.  The Photographs feature stunning landscapes, bringing a slight escape for patients in the waiting room within the Magnolia Building.

November

Scarborough donations wall installed

Following the success of the donations wall in York hospital, the design has been duplicated in Scarborough Hospital.

To find out more about York Teaching Hospital Charity, please click here.


October

Diwali

The Arts in York Hospital is proud to present a vibrant display in celebration of Diwali; the Hindu festival of light. 

The display is situated near junction 3 of the main corridor, featuring artwork from patients in the renal department who take part in art workshops whilst on dialysis.  This service is led by artist Van Nong.

This artwork is accompanied by colourful Indian fabrics, models and Diya lamps. An electronic photo frame provides interesting information about the history and customs of the festival of light.

Diwali fell on October 23rd 2014, but the exact date varies from year to year dependant on the lunar calendar.


Banners on the carpark

These banners were commissioned by City of York Council to be hung on the city walls as part of the Tour de France celebrations, July 2014.

Sixty different community groups worked with artists Emily Harvey, Kirstie Briggs Bateman and Griselda Goldsbrough to design and paint the banners.

York Hospital is delighted to be able to display twenty three of the collection  of sixty banners around the external faces of the Car Park.

The layout is based on a heraldic pennant, with borders dividing the sections;

The top section represents what the group does, the middle section has some information about the group and the bottom section is something about York


September

Hospital Stories

The Arts in York Hospital is delighted to announce the completion of the Hospital Stories booklet.  For more information and to access the stories, please click here.


The Lozenge

The Trust is getting a facelift thanks to photographic images donated from local photographers and camera clubs. The makeover has begun at Trust HQ at York Hospital where new decorative photo montages have brightened up the lozenge in the main entrance and the Chief Executive’s reception area.

Kat Hetherington, Art and Design Development Manager, explained: “The design features six locations around the Trust represented by images donated by local photographers and camera clubs working in each of those areas. It's both beautiful and welcoming and celebrates how the Trust is working together to improve healthcare in the region. “The designs were created by York design agency, Lazenby Brown, to promote the ideal of 'One Trust'. It was great to be able to incorporate work from people living in the communities that each of our hospitals serve to produce these beautiful designs.”

While the new look has been introduced first at York Hospital, further complimentary designs using the same theme will become visible at other sites around the Trust – watch this space!


August

NYImages UK photographers visit exhibition

On 19th August Kat Hetherington and Jess Sharp of the Arts Team welcomed members of NY Images UK to the hospital. The local photography collective have donated a collection of beautiful photographs for display along the blood taking corridor within Outpatients.  Contributing members visited the exhibition with founders Debbie Priestly and Graham Watson.  The collection has been donated on long term loan, with the intention of being changed yearly. To find out more, click here.


July

Your Hospital's Got Talent

Throughout May and June, the Arts in York Hospital asked staff of York Hospital Trust, ‘Have you got a talent or hobby that you’re proud of?’ as part of their ‘Your Hospital’s got Talent’ project.

The full collection will be on display along junction 7 of York Hospital from Wednesday 23rd July until Monday 1st September.  It will then go to Scarborough Hospital.  To view the entries online, click here.

We hope you enjoy the collection and are as inspired by it and impressed with our talented staff as we are.


Rebecca Stoner in the Magnolia Unit

Following the success of Rebecca Stoner’s work in the Magnolia Unit, she was commissioned to produce a further three pieces which now adorn the corridors in Breast Imaging.  Rebecca’s beautiful laser cut metal panels look stunning, incorporating birds and flowers to tie in with the artistic theme within the building.

Rebecca Stoner is a surface pattern designer based in York.  She creates designs for a wide range of products, surfaces and clients, often incorporating hand printed textures and shapes which she further develops in CAD.  For more information on Rebecca Stoner please click here.


A Midsummer Night's Dream Ball

The Arts in York Hospital were asked by York Teaching Hospital Charity to create decorations that tied in with this year’s fundraising ball theme - 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream'.

The Arts in York Hospital liaised with York St John University's Faculty of Arts and arranged that a creative Midsummer Night’s Dream project could be linked with the second year Art students work placement project.

A group of six Fine Art students worked tirelessly to create the beautiful decorations for the event. Their efforts brought the ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ theme to life with table adornments, pieces of artwork and even a short performance later in the evening.

The student group consisted of Paige Hughes, Corey Holdcroft, Hannah Proctor, Emily Bratby, Laura Coates and Abbie Cotton.


Friends of York Hospitals Courtyard

In 2013, the Friends of York Hospitals generously provided the funds to redesign the courtyard located nearest South entrance of York Hospital.

The Estates and Facilities department of York Hospital laboured tirelessly on this project, working on the ground works and creating the fantastic courtyard that we now enjoy.

The Arts in York Hospital are delighted to have been involved in its creation, working closely with students from York St John University’s Fine Art course to bring vibrancy and interest to this newly refurbished space.  The students were invited to work as a team to generate initial ideas, from which colourful and intriguing art works were produced.  The underlying theme of nature was chosen to create an imaginative yet calming space for patients, visitors and staff to engage with.

The student group included: Hannah Williamson, Oliver Jameson, Olivia Sanderson, Hannah Proctor, Corey Holdcroft and Chloe Hunt.


April

The Easter Garden

In celebration of Easter, the Arts in York Hospital have created this beautiful Easter garden, funded by the Chaplaincy.

An Easter Garden is a model garden which helps us to remember the story of Easter. It has three essential features: a hill with a cross to represent Calvary, a stone or slate structure to suggest the empty tomb and lots of greenery and flowers to represent new life.

You can see the Easter Garden on display in the Chapel throughout the Easter celebrations.


Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Collaborative Collage

This colourful montage was recently donated to us here at the hospital. 

It's the result of a collaborative project between three local schools hoping to raise awareness of the genetic condition Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.  

Students from the Year 10 BTEC Art and Design class at Barlby High School worked with children from Year 3 at Hemingbrough Primary and the Twigs class at Hob Moor Oaks Special School to design and produce the piece.  This project was supported by Drax Power.

For more information about the condition, please click here.


February

LGBT Month

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) month takes place in February every year and celebrates the lives and achievements of the LGBT community.

The 2014 theme was music, in accordance with this, The Arts in York Hospital created two huge musical staves for the display within the main entrance of York Hospital.  These staves provided a platform for patients, visitors and staff to leave a note on how they felt the trust could become more Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans friendly.

The comments received helped us compose future plans for our aim of becoming trusted to deliver safe, effective and sustainable healthcare within our communities.

In addition to this, we exhibited a collection of artworks by York artist, Nathan Chenery, whose work often embeds aspects of ‘queer culture’.

The display featured in York Hospital between the 3rd and 14th February, and visited numerous trust sites.


January

Chinese New Year

Kung Hei Fat Choy! 

In January, the Arts in York Hospital created a vibrant red black and gold installation to celebrate the Chinese New Year, with 2014 marking the year of the horse. 

Patients, visitors and staff enjoyed finding their own birth year animal within the display and discovering their typical characteristics.


2012

October

Celebrating the Renal Unit Mosaic Trees

On Wednesday 10 October, members of staff and patients of the Renal Unit were invited to a lunch time event to celebrate the fantastic Mosaic Trees.

The Chairman of York Hospital Foundation Trust and Lesley Seeger, the arts worker who led the project, both gave speeches about both the process of creating the work with the patients and the effect it's had on Hospital since it's been displayed.


Arts Team Literature

In readiness for this year's Open Day we have reworked our range of Literature and now have a fabulous set of leaflets, cards and handouts that explain who The Arts in York Hospital are and what we do. We even have our own Arts QR code to direct smart phone users to www.york.nhs.uk/arts

The literature we now have available are as follows:

- A four page booklet about The Arts in York Hospital
- Get Involved - Postcards with details about how interested parties can get involved with the Arts in York Hospital
- The Arts in York Hospital, an Infection Prevention Perspective


September

Open Day

September 2012 saw York Hospital's 6th annual open day. The open day is a great opportunity to visit York Hospital where wards and departments showcase their work so that members of the public and other staff can see what takes place daily within each area of the hospital.

During the course of the day Art and Design Officer, Gill Greaves, led talks about the current programme of Art and Design within York Hospital and Kat Hetherington ran the Art and Design stand in the foyer of the hospital.

To add to the fun, there were two competitions for people to take part in, a colouring competition and a quiz about the artworks displayed along the main corridor. The winners of the competions were Rosie Linsley (Art Therapy Student on Ward 37) and Lynda Phillis (Medical Secretary for Antenatal).


Celebration of Achievement Awards 2012 -The Arts Team win the Governors Award

On Thursday 6 September the Trust once again celebrated the most inspiring staff and volunteers in our organisation at the annual Celebration of Achievement Awards, held this year at the Barbican in York.

The evening was hosted by directors from the Trust and introduced by Chief Executive, Patrick Crowley.

Patrick said: "It's the one time of year when our staff can really stand up and take credit for the amazing efforts they put into their work.

It was a fantastic night and we would like to congratulate all of the winners. We would also like to thank the Governors of York Hospital who awarded the arts team the Governor's Award for 2012. We were honoured and delighted to receive such praise.


2011

December 2011

A Celebration of the Blake Gallery Collection in the Head and Neck Department

Date: Thursday 1 December
Time: 6.00pm - 7.00pm
Venue: Head and Neck Department

The Head and Neck Department would like to invite you to a festive event with mince pies and mulled fruit punch on Thursday 1 December to celebrate the beautiful artwork on display in the department.

We will be celebrating the generous loan of Art works by The Blake Gallery; there will also be works of art for sale so you can start your Christmas shopping.

We hope that you are able to come along and enjoy the exhibition, Christmas refreshments and perhaps even pick up a Christmas present.

If you would like to attend, please click here.

Looking down a long bright hospital corridor with treatment rooms on the left and windows on the right. At the bottom of the corridor is one member of staff in a blue nursing uniform

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Our Trust is asking visitors to help protect patients from highly contagious winter infections by not visiting friends and relatives in hospital, when they have been unwell or in close contact with someone with flu or norovirus.  Full details here.