NHS is 75 | Students and patients connect through art

An exhibition of art by USW students, in collaboration with hospital patients, was officially opened this week.

The exhibition, at University Hospital Llandough, is a collection of pieces that BA (Hons) Creative and Therapeutic Arts students have created, with patients from the Mental Health Services for Older People (MHSOP) unit.

Students worked closely with MHSOP staff before creating activity boxes for the wards inspired by ‘the NHS at 75’. The activity boxes formed the basis for workshops with the MHSOP patients where they explored artistic ideas and materials. The activity boxes stayed on the wards for patients and staff to work with further.

Tarah Kandial, second-year student, said: “The experience was very moving in that I witnessed the power of simply being together, listening and singing along to music, and hearing stories. It had me realise that this kind of connection and self-expression is such a vital part of life for us all.

“I was moved by the participants living with dementia, their warmth, character, and interests. It was beautiful to see people laughing, dancing, making art, or having someone beside them in a difficult moment. There was a feeling of togetherness and acceptance, even if just for a moment, or in a small way.”

Heloise Godfrey-Talbot, Lecturer, said: "It has been wonderful to collaborate with both patients and staff on the MHSOP wards and The Arts for Health and Wellbeing Team at Cardiff & Vale Health Charity. The students have learnt so much about the value of Arts for Health and Wellbeing through creating together and the exhibition looks wonderful."

Melanie Wotton, Project Manager for The Arts for Health and Wellbeing Team, said: ‘We are delighted to see our collaboration with USW grow from strength to strength over the last few years. This years’ project and vibrant exhibition, together with the sessions delivered by USW students and staff members in MHSOP, clearly demonstrate the many benefits and joy that engaging with the creative arts can bring.

“Our thanks to the talented students, to our staff members, and to our patients.”

The exhibition will run in the Hearth Gallery until 19 June 2023.