Creativity is flowing through York this summer as patients and staff at Foss Park Hospital join a city-wide celebration of local rivers.
The York rivers trail – a new way to explore the city’s rivers through art and storytelling – includes exhibitions, installations and creative projects.
And, at the very heart of celebrations, there is a stunning new mural at our city-based hospital – Foss Park.
Reflecting on art
Artist and creative health practitioner Griselda Goldsbrough worked with patients and staff on Ebor ward to create the tranquil water and countryside scene and said:
“The mural showcases the power of creativity in supporting mental health and wellbeing. It is about much more than creating a piece of art.
“It’s about creating a shared experience where people can slow down, notice, contribute and connect with one another.
“Watching people grow in confidence, share stories and see their ideas become part of something permanent has been incredibly rewarding.”
Working with water
The aim of the new river trail is to encourage people to think differently about how York lives with water, and how communities are connected through rivers.
Through art, storytelling and digital experiences, the trail explores how what happens upstream can affect life downstream.
Jenny Kent, executive member for environment and climate emergency at City of York Council, said: “York’s rivers have always shaped our city.
“The rivers trail helps bring that relationship to life in new and engaging ways. It shows how water connects communities, landscapes and everyday life.”
Art creates a warm welcome
The Foss Park artwork forms part of The Rivers and Us, a programme of exhibitions, creative projects and community stories connected to the new trail.
Patients were encouraged to contribute by creating their own artwork and the mural came to life through sharing ideas, memories and reflections.
Activity co-ordinator Becca Hargreaves said: “It has been wonderful to watch the mural develop through everyone’s ideas and creativity.
“Patients have become deeply absorbed in the process. People who would not normally join in have stopped to watch, chat or pick up a paintbrush.
“The mural has become a real talking point. It has helped create a calm and welcoming atmosphere while giving everyone something positive to be part of.”
Occupational therapist Devon Wells added: “Projects like this demonstrate how creativity can support recovery in a person-centred way.
“The sessions allowed patients to take part in whatever way felt right for them. Some painted, some shared ideas and others took time to reflect.
“The mural has encouraged confidence, conversation and connection. It has also created a lasting legacy for everyone who uses the ward.”
Art memories last a lifetime
Visitors and residents will be able to join the York river trail celebrations throughout the summer and beyond – and the Foss Park mural will live on too.
“Our mural will stand as a lasting reminder of creativity, connection and the positive impact shared experiences can have on wellbeing,” said Griselda.
“I hope it continues to bring moments of calm, curiosity and hope for patients, visitors and staff for many years to come.”
- Find out more about the York rivers trail and The rivers and us programme at: https://www.york.gov.uk/YorkRiversTrail
