UCLH Arts & Heritage recently hosted an inspiring art workshop in collaboration with Artbox London, an art studio based in Islington for artists with learning disabilities and autism, as part of the "Sharing is Caring" exhibition currently on display at The Street Gallery, University College Hospital. The workshop, led by Artbox London artist Violet and facilitated by Katie Parsons, invited service users from the UCLH Learning Disabilities & Autism team to learn about Artbox from Violet’s perspective. Violet shared insights into her creative process and encouraged participants to explore their own artistic expression.

Participants had the chance to create their own artworks inspired by Violet’s distinctive style, utilising techniques in both printmaking and drawing. We invite you to check out the bulletin board in the exhibition space to see the stunning artworks produced during the workshop, along with photographs capturing the creative process!

Violet’s artwork is rich in meaning and draws deeply from her Greek and Cypriot heritage. Her pieces blend ancient marble sculptures and historical artefacts with her own personal symbols—most notably, the expressive eyes and playful faces of animals, including a special tribute to her beloved black cat, Delilah.

Through her art, Violet explores themes of life, death, and the possibilities that lie beyond. She honours the memory of those she has lost, reflecting a beautiful cultural tradition common in many Greek families, where an annual remembrance of loved ones is observed. Violet's creations are not merely artistic expressions; they serve as heartfelt tributes that resonate with deep emotions and timeless connections.

The "Sharing Is Caring" group exhibition, in partnership with Artbox London, showcases the work of nineteen talented artists and is open for viewing in The Street Gallery on the ground floor of University College Hospital until Wednesday, 5th February. To learn more about the artists featured in this exhibition, you can scan the QR codes located on the accompanying labels or contact rachel.wilford1@nhs.net for further information.


About UCLH Arts & Heritage

UCLH Arts & Heritage is the hospital arts and heritage project that serves UCLH NHS Foundation Trust and its surrounding community and is funded entirely by charitable donations and fundraising. UCLH Arts & Heritage is committed to providing a welcoming, uplifting environment for all patients, visitors and staff through the use of a varied and stimulating arts and heritage programme. Its work aims to improve the patient experience, boost staff morale, increase engagement with the arts and celebrate the Trust’s unique heritage and community. 

Since 2005, UCLH has worked to improve patient and staff outcomes through the Arts. It does this in a number of ways, including a changing exhibition and music programme, creative workshops on wards, artist residencies, commissioning site-specific artwork, and a staff culture club. UCLH arts and heritage receives its funding from UCLH Charity and the Friends of UCLH. 

Website: https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/about-us/who-we-are/arts-and-heritage

Email: uclh.arts@nhs.net 

Twitter: @uclh 

Instagram: @uclh