We are thrilled to share the news that two exciting new photography exhibitions have recently launched in hospitals across Dumfries & Galloway – including one in a brand-new exhibition space at Galloway Community Hospital, now open for patients, staff and visitors to enjoy. 

The exhibitions have been co-ordinated by OutPost Arts as part of the DG Creative Wellbeing project in collaboration with Shambellie House, with the shared aim of bringing high-quality creative work into healthcare environments. The initiative seeks to uplift and enrich clinical spaces, offering moments of reflection, inspiration and connection for everyone who passes through.  

“We’re delighted to open these exhibition spaces – one within the established permanent gallery at DGRI, and the other in the newly launched exhibition space at Galloway Community Hospital. These spaces offer an opportunity for patients, visitors and staff alike to pause, reflect and connect with the inspiring works on display. We hope everyone who passes through will take a moment to explore the captivating collection of photographs, showcasing the creativity and talent of artists from across the region.” Lucy Bell, DG Creative Health & Wellbeing Director. 

At Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary, the ‘Celebrating Women in Photography’ exhibition shares the work of 52 images by female photographers. The work was selected by a panel of judges from over one hundred entries and was originally exhibited as part of the Shambellie House Festival of Photography 2023 

At Galloway Community Hospital, the ‘Celebrating Community through Photography’ exhibition shares work by both professional and non-professional photographers from across the region, submitted through an open call (supported by the Regional Events Growth Fund). The gallery of images represents what ‘Community’ means to different people. 

“The exhibition currently on display at Galloway Community Hospital has created a focal point for patients, staff and visitors. As this is the route that some patients take to the X-Ray Department the art works on display can be a welcome distraction in that part of the hospital experience.” Jason Jordan, Assistant General Manager at Galloway Community Hospital, NHS D&G.  

Since 2023, OutPost Arts has worked in partnership with NHS Dumfries & Galloway to deliver an ambitious and diverse creative health programme across the region’s clinical sites. Through this collaboration, dedicated exhibition spaces, both small and large, have been developed across the region’s major healthcare locations. These exhibitions feature a wide range of work created through the Art in Healthcare Participatory Programme, contributions from local community groups, and partnerships with artists and organisations across Dumfries & Galloway and beyond.