Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre: Sculptures & Words

Patients are being invited to stamp their own identity on their space in hospital using a series of sculptures inspired by books and reading.

Artist Jeremy Hutchinson was appointed by Willis Newson to make a permanent series of artworks to help create a supportive cancer care environment within the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre (BHOC). The artworks were funded by the hospital charity Above & Beyond.

As well as providing something aesthetically pleasing to look at, the bright yellow functional sculptures also offer a place to store personal possessions. They have been designed to invite the patient to curate their own still life and to enjoy their own things. They can be used to hold books, hang up a hat, display family photos, or in any way the patient chooses. The composition of these things becomes a kind of portrait of the patient.

The environment of the hospital is very important for patients and for staff. People in hospital often experience a 'loss of self'; they are deprived of the things that are familiar to them, whether it’s their favourite food, a comfortable sofa or a painting on the wall. The hospital environment has an impact on patient wellbeing, and Willis Newson aim to use art to improve patients’ quality of life.

One of the aims of the project was to engage patients and staff. Whilst working at the hospital, Jeremy Hutchinson realised that reading was an escape for many people. During a series of one-to-one workshops, he invited patients and family members in waiting rooms to choose a book and to select a phrase. These phrases were used to create simple collages, combining witty jokes with serious reflections, and the everyday with the life-defining.

The material selected has been published in a new limited edition book which is available in the hospital for people to read or take away.

Poet Rick Holland worked with Jeremy Hutchinson to create a new poem, which was read at an event for patients and staff, and is also included in the book.

To see the work on flickr click here