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The Waterford healing arts project - bringing art and health together
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Last modified date:8 February 2007
The Waterford Healing Arts Project, which has been running since 1991, is the arts programme at Waterford Regional Hospital, Republic of Ireland. Originally focused on using visual art to enhance stark corridors and to aid wayfinding, the programme has flourished in recognition of the positive effect that the arts can have on people's wellbeing.
A mixture of reproductions and commissioned artwork by local artists feature throughout the hospital. These have been chosen with the involvement of staff and consideration of the particular needs of different patient groups.
The first commissioned work, a two-piece stone and metal sculpture and separate water feature for the main entrance, adds interest for visitors, staff and patients and serves as a landmark. A further structure, a prism outside, creates a rainbow effect within the entrance area when the sun is shining.
Alongside the permanent collection of artwork, temporary exhibitions are used to add interest and variety. This has included an exhibition from an artist and ex-patient with manic depression. The pictures, which provide a visual representation of the committal process, not only served to enhance the healthcare environment but also to lessen the stigma associated with psychiatric illness.
Hands-on involvement
Encouraging people to participate in the actual making of art underpins the programme's objective of using the visual arts in the healing process. To this end, patients and staff are able to produce their own works of art through a range of activities including artist-led workshops, open days and the regular 'Art Kart' sessions.
The colourful 'Art Kart', a converted medicine trolley, visits the paediatric, psychiatric and orthopaedic wards as part of the hospital's weekly facilitated art sessions.
As well as encouraging patients to enjoy themselves, the sessions help them to develop their creativity, express their feelings and perhaps, most importantly, divert attention away from their problems.
The weekly sessions on the psychiatric ward have become such an important part of some patients' healing process that those wishing to return to the unit for the art sessions are made welcome. One patient has been returning each week for over a year and has exhibited work in a national competition.
The Friends of Waterford Regional Hospital have also enhanced the hospital environment through the donation of tapestries that they have created.
Beyond visual art
Alongside a diverse visual arts programme, monthly musical events take place in the main entrance area as well as being 'rotated' round the wards. These events have proved very popular, particularly with patients who are too unwell to appreciate visual art.
Local musicians are chosen for their ability to form a rapport with patients. Traditional Irish songs are particularly popular with patients who enjoy singing along.
Other 'live' activities have included a puppet show and visits from face painters, clowns and Waterford Youth Drama.
Another element to the programme is 'The Healing Garden', which harnesses the healing properties of herbs, to create a space where patients can gain 'peace and relaxation'. The garden has been well-received by staff and patients alike, particularly psychiatric patients.
The future
There are plans to extend the programme to encompass the hospital's radio station. The initial focus will be on broadcasting short stories that appeal to older people, although in time it will be extended to include sci-fi and comedy slots and reports from local people on healthcare and diet.
A writer-in-residence is going to be employed to facilitate workshops for staff and patients as well as giving live readings on the ward of their own work.
The Waterford Healing Arts Project is overseen by the Waterford Healing Arts Trust (WHAT), a group of committed volunteers. A full-time arts co-ordinator for the project was appointed at the end of May 2002. The post is funded by the South Eastern Health Board and The Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaion.
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