Friday 10 October
As part of World Mental Health Day 2025, patients at Foss Park Hospital in York have collaborated on a powerful creative project inspired by nature and heritage.
Throughout September and October, York Minster Archives provided a bumper nature-themed resource pack inspiring a series of art sessions at the hospital.
Led by artist Griselda Goldsbrough, in partnership with the hospital’s occupational therapy team and activity coordinators, the workshops encouraged patients to repurpose materials from existing stores to create vibrant artwork for a future exhibition.
Drawing on York Minster’s stunning natural history archive, one of the most striking outcomes from the art workshops was the creation of the ‘Cape of Good Health’ – a large, hand-crafted textile piece decorated with pictures and positive messages contributed by patients.
Patients were invited to wear the cape and have their photographs taken to share with loved ones.
“As ever, working closely with the brilliant teams at Foss Park has been an incredible opportunity,” said Griselda Goldsbrough.
“The Minster resources have been wonderful conversation starters and have inspired patients to create something truly special. The cape is a joy – it carries both the beauty of York Minster’s archives and the powerful voices of today.”
Ruth Allen, a specialist occupational therapist at Foss Park, added: “We are really pleased to have used such brilliant York Minster resources with patients. We’ve not only created beautiful artwork for the walls, but the ‘Cape of Good Health’ gives us something truly symbolic to celebrate World Mental Health Day.”
Kirsty Mitchell, from York Minster Archives, said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to bring together some of the Minster’s wonderful nature archives. Seeing the artwork created has been wonderful – patients seem to have really immersed themselves in this project.”
The initiative highlights how creative expression and nature-based activities can play a vital role in supporting mental health and recovery.
This World Mental Health Day let’s celebrate the power of connection, creativity and community in healing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, it’s important to seek help.
Find out more about the mental health support available to you.
