Client: Northern Ireland Hospice

Overview

Two artworks in vitreous enamel on steel and printed glass in the main corridor of the renovated Northern Ireland Hospice in Belfast. The artwork continues on the glass windows with printed images on vinyl. Commissioned by NI Hospice Integrated Arts Team and supported by the Arts Council NI Public Lottery Fund.

Goals

The building has several commissions integrated into the fabric of the building, the brief was to bring nature inside, to ceate a calm yet uplifting atmosphere, to bring a sense of home into the hospice and to create an engaging artwork that breaks the monotony of the space. A flock of glass and enamel birds soar away from the coloured blue and green patterns which surround the double doors. Colours of the surrounding countryside: blue sea, pale turquoise sky and green hills are softened by textures of grass, leaves and wild flowers. These textures are reflected in the fired surfaces of the enamel and glass birds.

Process

The artist worked closely with the design team including Consarc Architects to ensure the colours and use of space reflected the interior design colours and design brief. Ceramic workshops with users of the building gave an insight into how patients felt about the hospice and gave them a sense of ownership of the design.

Additional Information

In showing the journey of these birds, I hope to capture that feeling of soaring; turning and twisting, letting the wind lift and carry them; going with the flow. I hope the users and staff of the hospice can connect to that feeling of freedom, release and trust, and find it an uplifting and positive artwork which makes a small difference in their daily lives.