Hospice hosts first art exhibition

Severn Hospice is inviting supporters and art lovers to Journeys Through Art, a captivating exhibition inspired by how exploring emotions and expressing feelings through artistic media can be especially helpful after being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.

The exhibition takes place on November 4th from 7pm to 9pm at the charity’s Bicton Heath hospice and includes over 30 works to view, all created by patients during creative artistic and therapeutic sessions that the hospice offers as part of its day services.

One of the exhibition’s many highlights includes the beautiful and thought-provoking works of one patient in particular, Wendy Brookfield, whose pieces from her art therapy sessions and sketchbook chronicles will take center stage.

Wendy said: “I love art and being creative, so it’s really special to be part of the hospice’s first art exhibition.

“I really hope visitors enjoy seeing all of our work. Each exhibition has a story to tell, and the chronicles in my notebook are a continuation of the sessions. These are some of my favorite works and I have the privilege of sharing them with everyone.

“Each one is an expression of a specific day or situation, of what I’m feeling or what I’m processing at that moment. Sometimes you can be overwhelmed by your diagnosis and my sessions with Holly, the hospice’s amazing art therapist, have been invaluable in helping me explore emotions and challenges in a positive, supported way and focus on living well.”

In addition to inspiring patient pieces, local artists will showcase and sell examples of their eclectic work.

Becky Richardson, Director of Care, who will be on hand on the evening to welcome visitors, said: “We are so excited to be hosting such a special event. This is a first for us and as well as an evening of discovering thought-provoking and inspiring artwork, it is an opportunity to raise awareness of our wonderful day services and how we support our patients beyond the clinical care people expect.

“Art therapy is not about the finished image, although I must say that all the pieces on display are particularly good. It is about exploration and processing through art materials with our specially trained art therapist on hand to support patients on their journey. Hence the title, Journeys through Art, is particularly appropriate.”

The exhibition is being held at the Severn Hospice Community Services Center where visitors to the exhibition can visit the creative and artistic areas.

Becky added: “Inviting the community into this fantastic space is a great way for us to share this aspect of our care services and help break down barriers about hospices and hospice buildings. Our Community Services Building is exactly what it’s called – it’s all about community. We can’t wait to see you all there where you can enjoy the cheese and wine exhibit!”

Tickets cost £7 per person, including exhibition entry, cheese and wine, and are available by emailing [email protected] or calling 01743 236565.

All proceeds from ticket sales and a percentage of artwork sales support Severn Hospice.