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RD&E hosts community art exhibition
Work in the annual ‘Friends and Family’ art exhibition at the Royal Devon & Exeter hospital is being snapped up as gifts by patients, visitors and staff.
Photo above: Trust Chairman Mrs Angela Ballatti viewing the Family and Friends exhibition
Artists could have up to three of their pictures on display in the hospital by Exeter Healthcare Arts – the exhibition pieces were selected by Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust Chairman Mrs Angela Ballatti, Head of Exeter HealthCare Arts Stephen Pettet Smith, and artists Elaine M Goodwin and Sally Francis.
Sally had travelled to Britain from Australia, where she heads a similar organisation to EHCA, to visit the countries top arts and health organisations.
Stephen Pettet Smith said: “This popular event has proved a real hit with patients, staff and visitors. The show consists of works in a wide range of mediums including oils, watercolours, acrylic, printmaking and photography. Along with the many other exhibitions presented at the hospital throughout the year, the show provides an interesting distraction for patients and visitors. Staff enjoy the event too, taking time to browse during breaks from their work.
“The exhibition timing is intended to allow viewers to purchase unique art works in time for Christmas and artists who sell their work donate money to Exeter HealthCare Arts. This year is the ninth for this popular exhibition and works are selling particularly well. Staff, patients and visitors have bought works as Christmas gifts for families and friends.”
Sally Francis, Arts Co-ordinator at Flinders Medical Centre, South Australia said ‘I have learnt such a lot from the visit. I really appreciate the philosophy and approach you are developing.’
Artists who are interested in taking part in future group or solo exhibitions should contact Exeter HealthCare Arts by telephone - 01392 402366 or by mail: Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital (Wonford), Bowmoor House, Barrack Road, Exeter EX2 5DW or email info@ehca.org.uk