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Art provides creative relief
for patients at the Royal
DEMENTIA and stroke patients at
the Royal Liverpool University Hospital have been given the opportunity to
create their own works of art as part of a creative art programme. The 6 week
project called:- 'Making a Difference' is part of a partnership
between the Royal and The Bluecoat Display Centre. Funded through the Arts
Council's:- 'Grants for the Arts' programme and other charitable
foundations, the project focuses on providing dementia and some stroke patients
with a stimulating activity to concentrate on for a short period while being
treated in hospital.
Rachael Howard, the artist commissioned to take part in the project, wanted
patients to focus on their art rather than the time they were spending in
hospital. Rachael said:- "It's something to take a patient's mind off
their hospital visit. We want the work they do to empower them with a small
project they can be proud of. What we have seen is patients become engrossed in
the work they're doing. It has been lovely to see the joy on their faces and the
interaction their art has encouraged between patients, relatives and staff."
Maureen Bampton, director of the Bluecoat Display Centre, said:- "The
project was designed to be an immersive experience between patients and
carefully selected leading contemporary craft makers, who appeared to really
benefit from the contact and exploration seen within the residencies."
After finishing their artwork, patients are given a copy of their art to display
proudly on their ward. Originals will be used as part of a collaborative
exhibition to be displayed alongside the Rachael's own work in the Royal at a
special event, on Wednesday, 18 May 2016.
Shaun Lever, dementia practitioner for the Trust said:- "Giving dementia
patients stimulating activities during their stay in hospital is a real benefit
to the patient. Taking some time to concentrate on their own artwork gives
patients the opportunity to express themselves in a different way. Patients have
responded well to taking part in the project and it has been a great experience
for everyone involved. Even spending some time with Rachael and talking about
their art can help a patient in their rehabilitation."
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