THURSDAY, 26 MAY, 2016

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: 2.30PM, SATURDAY, 28 MAY, STROKE REHABILITATION UNIT, PERTH ROYAL INFIRMARY

Display of art at PRI Stroke Rehabilitation Unit

A collection of art created by stroke inpatients went on display at the PRI stroke rehabilitation unit today (Saturday).

The work was created as part of the annual ST/ART art programme, an engagement project for stroke participants which is delivered across Tayside. The project is run by Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust (THAT) in association with NHS Tayside.

Artist Elspeth Mackenzie has been working with inpatients at the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit over the past four months introducing them to a range of drawing and painting techniques. Participants received one-to-one sessions and also had the chance to join in weekend group sessions.

Participants created a wide range of work, including tonal and pastel drawings, watercolours and mixed media artworks.

ST/ART project coordinator Chris Kelly said, “It’s been good to see a new group of participants enjoying the creative experience that can also be good for their health.

“Our relationship with the unit staff is based on a long history of partnership working and we appreciate their commitment, which is important to the ongoing success of the programme.”

Elspeth added, “I have worked here with ST/ART for a number of years but every group of participants is different. Most think that they will not be able to do as much but with individual support tailored to their personal interests, the participants quickly learn that it is both stimulating and fun.”

Senior charge nurse Bernie McLaughlin said, “It is such a benefit to be able to get patients involved in a different form of rehab activity. Friends and family regularly comment on the change of mood and conversation though the art programme.”

THAT promotes the therapeutic value of arts based programmes to enhance quality of life, promote

social inclusion and empower the individual to help them make a significant contribution to their health

and wellbeing.

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134