Between September and November 2025, Midpark Hospital once again became a vibrant centre of creativity as the second block of Art Matters workshops invited patients, staff and visitors to explore Nature Ceramics and Textiles with artists Ruth Elizabeth Jones and Helen Walsh.
Across six sessions, participants were encouraged to slow down, try something new and enjoy the grounding, sensory experience of working with clay and textiles.
In Ruth’s ceramics workshops, participants created leaf-imprinted tiles, explored hand-building techniques and experienced the calm that comes from shaping clay by hand. In Helen’s textile sessions, embroidered leaves emerged through colour, pattern and stitch, offering satisfaction through the steady, mindful rhythm of needle and thread.
For many, this was their first encounter with these artforms – something that only deepened the sense of discovery:
“Nice to do something unusual.”
“Very interestingly different to a normal day.”
“I feel like I accomplished something.”
Both activities were intentionally flexible, allowing participants to explore at their own pace, follow their curiosity and simply enjoy the process.
Wellbeing Impacts: Calm, Focus and a Sense of Pride
Feedback from patients, staff and visitors was overwhelmingly positive. Participants consistently described feeling calmer, happier and more grounded after sessions.
Patients shared:
“Having something to concentrate on helped me stop having self-destructive feelings.”
“It made me feel proud of myself.”
“You can lose yourself in the work.”
Staff echoed similar experiences:
“I felt uplifted by the end.”
“This activity was really relaxing… a great way to chat with patients outwith the ward environment.”
“I feel calmer and more content following working with the leaves and clay.”
Staff also observed visible changes in participants:
“One participant was unsettled and restless before the activity but became very calm as soon as she started.”
The mix of clay, fabric, colour, texture and nature-inspired themes proved deeply therapeutic, supporting emotional regulation, confidence and focus.
A Space for Community
One of the most meaningful outcomes was the sense of community created within the Reception Area. Patients from different wards mixed freely, chatted, shared ideas and encouraged one another. Visitors joined too, contributing to a warm, sociable environment.
“It was perfect to be stitching and chatting.”
“I have enjoyed today and the company.”
“Great sense of achievement from patients on completing work.”
Staff valued the opportunity to participate alongside patients – strengthening rapport and fostering shared understanding.
Skilled, Supportive Facilitation
Participants praised both artists for their calm, friendly and encouraging approach. Through clear guidance and adaptable support, Ruth and Helen created sessions where everyone felt capable and comfortable exploring creatively.
Work created during the programme will be showcased in a new Reception Area exhibition, celebrating the imagination and resilience of those involved.
Creativity as Care
The Art Matters workshops continue to demonstrate how creativity can play a meaningful role in clinical environments, offering calm, confidence and connection.
As one participant put it simply:
“Long may it continue.”
Coordinated by OutPost Arts as part of the DG Creative Wellbeing initiative, the programme continues to champion creativity as a powerful tool for wellbeing and recovery.