Refurbishment of the Renal Unit at Morriston Hospital
Ideas for the artwork in the Renal Unit were developed through conversations between Renal staff and Gemma Bartlett, Photographic artist. Staff wanted to create a sense of belonging and identity for the Unit; connecting to the locality, drawing on themes of nature and creating a positive atmosphere. ‘The Coast’ became the chosen theme.
Gemma considered ‘The Coast’ in relation to her artistic approach, observing and working with the variety of lines and textures seen close up. She visited beaches such as Three Cliffs Bay and Mewslade Bay on the Gower Peninsula. She also visited Ogmore–by–Sea and Southerndown beach bringing the South Wales coastline together.
The finished collection of photographs create a sense of narrative and flow throughout the building, responding to the blue colour scheme. The large wall coverings present an initial impact on arrival whilst the individual and diptych panels offer time for quiet contemplation.
Acknowledgements Thanks to Gemma Bartlett and the following staff for their involvement in the project; Meryl Webb – Jones, Matron, Jennifer Ann Williams, Renal Sister, Sarah Ingham - Jones, Service Group Manager, Heather Parnell, Capital Arts Manager, Marcus Eyre, Project Manager, Capital Planning.
About the artist Gemma Bartlett is a photographic artist who practices photography through personal documentation and public commissions. Her work typically explores concepts and ideas associated with experience, memory and the overlooked. She is inspired by close up composition, light and colour in her subject.