UCLH Patient Open Exhibition 2025
The Street Gallery, Ground floor, University College Hospital, 235 Euston Road NW1 2BU
Friday, 2nd May - Wednesday, 9th July 2025
UCLH Arts are proud to present the first UCLH Patient Open Exhibition, showcasing the creativity and unique perspectives of patients within UCLH NHS Foundation Trust. The exhibition recognises the important role that creativity plays in supporting patients through recovery. Studies have shown that engaging in the arts during treatment can significantly improve mental health, reduce anxiety and stress, and even support physical recovery.
By exhibiting patient artworks in the heart of the hospital, we aim to celebrate the strength and individuality of our patient community and highlight the value of creative expression as part of a holistic approach to health and well-being.
“Maintaining a positive focus during my recovery from chemotherapy and stem cell transplant has been incredibly beneficial for me. Having a purpose during this time made a significant difference. When I received the letter saying that my painting had been accepted by the panel, I was overjoyed and immediately shared the news with all my family and friends.
Participating in the exhibition has brightened my spirits. I hope that other patients have experienced a similar uplifting effect!” — Exhibiting Artist
The UCLH Patient Open Exhibition was open to individuals who are currently receiving treatment or have previously received treatment at UCLH. This year, over sixty artworks were submitted, with thirty selected to be displayed in The Street Gallery on the ground floor of University College Hospital. The exhibition features a vibrant mix of painting, photography, collage, and mixed media – each piece offering insight into the artist’s journey and experience of care.
Exhibition labels feature quotes from the artists, sharing their creative processes, their time at UCLH, and how art has positively impacted their recovery. Some of the works on display are available for purchase, with proceeds going directly to the artists and the hospital arts programme. For enquiries, please email uclh.
“Displaying artwork by patients reminds us that we are more than a diagnosis or illness. Each of us is inherently creative, with a unique story to tell. This exhibition not only empowers patients by giving them a sense of agency, but it also transforms the hospital environment, making it feel more human, uplifting, and less sterile.” — Guy Noble, Arts Curator, UCLH Arts
UCLH Arts, established in 2005, works across all our hospitals to create a welcoming and uplifting environment for patients, visitors, and staff through a programme of arts, culture, and creative health. As we celebrate 20 years of this transformative work, we are delighted to mark this anniversary with the launch of the Patient Open Exhibition.
Community Opening
Join us for the community opening of the exhibition on Thursday, 1st May, between 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The event is supported by the London Graphic Centre, who have generously donated bags filled with art supplies for the patients showcasing their work in the exhibition.
Complimentary refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP to this event by completing the form attached here.
About UCLH Arts
UCLH Arts is the creative health programme that serves UCLH NHS Foundation Trust and its surrounding community. We are funded entirely by charitable donations and are committed to providing a welcoming, uplifting environment for all patients, visitors and staff through the use of a varied and stimulating arts programme.
UCLH Arts receives its funding from UCLH Charity and the Friends of UCLH.
Website: uclh.nhs.uk/arts
Email: uclh.
