The Royal Bournemouth Hospital is benefitting from an exciting new artwork at the BEACH Building, unveiled on Wednesday 29 July.

University Hospitals Dorset and the hospitals’ Charity commissioned south coast studio, Orakel Workshop, for the project following a public vote and detailed selection process by local community and NHS staff.

Led by site-specific artist and designer Jac Seifert, the artwork adds a sense of calm and creativity to the exterior of the BEACH Building, a six-storey unit housing emergency services, critical care, maternity and children’s units set on the Royal Bournemouth Hospital site.

Jac is known for creating vibrant designs inspired by people and places, and this piece ‘From the tide to the trees’, celebrates nature and local beauty spots from across the area served by University Hospital Dorset, all nominated by NHS staff and local people. Applied to the east wall, the artwork serves as a welcoming focus point for the BEACH Building’s entrance while providing a peaceful environment for patients, staff and visitors.

Jac Seifert, Orakel Workshop said: “I am very grateful for the opportunity to have worked on this exciting project. I really enjoyed exploring the diverse natural landscapes of South East Dorset and what these extraordinary coastal and forest locations mean to the people who live here and I hope that the artwork reflects people's connection to the areas' beauty and colour.”

Debbie Anderson, Charity Director for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, said: “University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity is committed to providing a welcoming uplifting environment for patients, visitors and staff using a varied and stimulating arts programme. Funding from the charity goes above and beyond NHS core funding to deliver improved patient and staff outcomes. We hope that funding this flagship art installation will be a catalyst for donors to support further pieces of art throughout our hospital sites.”

The project is part of a broader arts strategy across the Royal Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch hospitals to include initiatives with regional artists, schools, colleges and universities. There will also be opportunities for patients and staff to participate in visual art, music and dance activities, which have been proven to support wellbeing and reduce recovery time.

Laura Joy, University Hospitals Dorset’s Arts Manager, added: “We have been incredibly lucky to have Jac co-create this public artwork with NHS staff, local cultural and heritage professionals, and wider community members. Art has the power to transform spaces and lift spirits. Jac has added a burst of colour and creativity to the BEACH Building. It’s the perfect way to paint a picture of hope for our community, and for the future of our hospitals.”