Commemorative Art Project for Swansea Bay University Health Board

Tender description

Swansea Bay University Health Board is calling for applications from experienced and suitably qualified artist/s to design and realise unique, external interventions on a number of hospital sites. These are to commemorate the extraordinary experience of staff and local communities during Covid 19, to honour and remember those who lost their lives, to recognise front line workers who put patients’ lives first, and to capture the social solidarity and support our community gave to us. The successful artists will respond creatively to the aspirations, recommendations and themes arising from Finding Words, a recent consultation report. It recommended creating external spaces on two sites and a number of echoes elsewhere. Key comments include: ‘A place for quiet contemplation’, ‘A focus on growth and hope’ and an interest in engaging the senses, nature, seasonality. It is anticipated that the successful artist will include an element of creative consultation as an aspect of the commission and work strategically to meet the project aims across sites. Background information: Gratitude for the sacrifice, courage and generosity of many is the driver for this project. The extraordinary circumstance of the COVID 19 pandemic has had a profound impact on individuals and communities around the world; there has been unprecedented loss of life and significant restrictions in how we live. However, social solidarity has inspired our staff in extremely difficult times. Our local communities have demonstrated their gratitude to the NHS in numerous ways; the Thursday clap, messages and cards, artworks from children delivered to wards, rainbows in windows and artwork donations. Extraordinary collaborations took place with local and unexpected organisations. Swansea Bay University Health Board recognises and wants to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts made by its workforce, external organisations, individuals and groups who have rallied together, shown courage, commitment and bravery in the face of the crisis, and to honour and remember those who lost their lives. The Swansea Bay Arts & Heritage in Health Team, together with Fundraising and executive support have been successful in its bid for NHS Charities Together Funding to enable this commission. The commission will be overseen by representatives of the Arts & Heritage Group (AHG). This will involve working closely with the AHG on all aspects of the commission.