University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust and Charity is on the lookout for established artists to win the opportunity to create a stunning commission for our new BEACH (Birth, Emergency, Critical Care, and Children’s Health) building.
This iconic building, located at Royal Bournemouth Hospital, is part of an exciting £500 million transformation of University Hospitals Dorset (UHD). With work set to be completed in spring 2025 and departments moving in afterwards, this is a game-changing project that will revolutionise healthcare for everyone in Dorset and beyond.
During this exciting period of growth, UHD seeks an established artist or artist collective to have their work proudly displayed at the base of the BEACH building’s iconic tower. This artwork will welcome the thousands of patients, visitors and staff that come to Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s grounds every year.
Artists will need to submit their proposals, images of previous works relevant to this project, a CV and a cover letter on our supplier portal by the 12pm deadline on Monday, 10 June 2024.
A panel – composed of UHD staff members and local arts specialists – will shortlist the applications and eventually choose the work that will be proudly displayed outside UHD’s BEACH building.
The chosen artist will have the chance to create and deliver their original proposal for this fantastic new building, using any media and material if the artwork is permanent and durable with a minimum 15-year lifespan.
The ideal candidate will also have a connection to the local area.
This specific commission is part of UHD NHS Foundation Trust’s commitment to providing the best possible environment and service for patients, visitors, and healthcare staff across the region.
The selected artwork will support the well-being of crucial NHS staff members and provide enjoyment for patients and visitors.
UHD NHS Charity arts manager, Laura Joy, said providing opportunities to engage with the arts in healthcare environments is “known to be beneficial for patients and NHS colleagues”. This new public arts commission will support the well-being of crucial NHS staff members and give patients and visitors something to enjoy.
Laura said: “Art has the power to inspire positive transformation, and this is a fantastic opportunity for an artist or artist partnership to have their work showcased in a truly wonderful setting.
“This artist will breathe life into the BEACH building environment, making it more engaging, welcoming and a true celebration of our community.
“We would love for artists to create a design that beautifully represents the diversity of UHD and our role supporting the community all while aligning with the overall theme of the BEACH building – from the coastline to the forest.
“Dorset is a nature lover’s dream with gorgeous beaches, dramatic clifftops and rolling hills. We want our BEACH Building to not only celebrate our amazing NHS services but also the beauty of the area we inhabit in England.”
Please apply through our supplier portal on the link here: https://atamis-1928.my.site.com/s/Welcome
Click ‘view our live opportunities’ and search ‘public art commission for University Hospitals Dorset’.