A residency on the Childrens Ward to establish peoples thoughts and feelings about outdoor spaces – to help guide the re-design of a courtyard garden within the hospital and to engage with patients and visitors on the ward through some creativity.
“It was amazing engaging with staff, patients and visitors, providing consultation and some light relief from their day. During my time there I was based in the playroom on the children’s ward. Patients who were unable to attend the playroom, but interested in being involved allowed me to visit their bedside and supply the ‘ingredients’ for model making, such as moss, soil, herbs, seed heads and willow. As one child said, “ this is amazing, I can’t come to the garden, so the garden comes to me!” A really moving experience for me, meeting brave, ambitious people all supporting theories that nature and the arts are a powerful therapy.”
Julie Starks
