Case study: Bethlem Royal Hospital

Artists are at the forefront of efforts to humanise the health system. Best practice in hospitals often includes artists working alongside patients or working to enhance the environment.

Bethlem Royal Hospital, part of South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, does both. The 750 year old psychiatric hospital contains a gallery space and hosts artists-in-residence. A courtyard garden has been created by residents, working with sculptor Tom Grimsey. The picture shows his steel sculptures.

Tom is a sculptor working in a wide range of materials, with a particular experience in large scale metalwork and its application in shaping the environment. Previous commissions have also involved cast glass, lighting, video projection and landscaping.

'Me and Mr Normal' is the title of a 33 metre ceramic mural created by residents and artist Timothy Clapcott, whose snails are seen here. The residents also have an organic garden which they can help to cultivate. Its orchard and pastures serve as part of London's Green Belt.

--> accessible greenspaces
--> home