INSIDE A PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL

Paintings completed inside a secure psychiatric rehabilitation hospital, supporting men and women with autism, learning disabilities, challenging behaviour and/or mental illness

Together with staff, managers and patients, we decided to make some murals inside of the hospital where I was working at the time. The hospital is typical in that it is a sterile environment, everything is locked and you need a keycard or key to get through any door. All the furniture is weighted and with no sharp edges for the safety of staff and patients. Unlike a general hospital, most of the patients stay for long term, sometimes for many years. So although they are there for treatment, it is also their home in which they spend most of their time. I think that the murals can contribute to a sense of identity and belonging within the hospital environment. Patients may feel a stronger connection to the space and the community when surrounded by artwork that resonates with their experiences and emotions. I also believe vibrant and colourful murals have the potential to uplift and positively impact the mood of patients, contributing to a more cheerful and optimistic environment for patients and staff. This can play a role in reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.