A mural inspired by the journey to recovery is bringing hope and joy to both patients and staff at a hospital in Middlesbrough.
Ridgeway, the secure inpatient service at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, last year hosted a competition to design a new piece of artwork to be put on display.
The contest was open to all patients within the service – with the final winner designing a mural representing the journey of recovery at Ridgeway, entitled ‘Guided Hope’.
“It is an amazing piece of art, which depicts patients being guided through their mental health recovery by staff, family and carers,” said Steph Addison, recovery and outcomes engagement facilitator.
“This is shown through the lighthouse guiding a ship through choppy waters and a rainbow representing the NHS. It also features several birds as a tribute to our bird-named wards.
“It really helps cheer people up.”
Mural of hope
The mural was originally planned for the front of Ridgeway, but it was decided that it should be placed within the perimeter instead, for all patients and staff to enjoy
Once the winning entry was chosen, TEWV commissioned renowned Manchester artist, Justin Eagleton, to transform the original design into a digital art piece for display.
He said: “It was an absolute honour. The work is bright and vibrantly emotive. May it bring many years of light and positivity and, of course, hope to all that see it.”
Picture of joy
A special ceremony was held recently to celebrate the installation of the artwork, which was attended by the winner of the competition and their family.
“The patient was thrilled to see their artwork on display,” said Steph. “We also presented their family with a smaller print of the artwork, which was signed by the patient themselves.”
John Savage, associate director of Nursing and Quality at Ridgeway, added: “The artwork is being enjoyed by all our patients and colleagues within the hospital.
“We really are delighted with how the mural has turned out. It represents such an important subject – recovery – and artist Justin Eagleton has really done justice to the original design.”
