Healing in Colour: New Exhibition Showcases the Importance of Arts in Healthcare

A powerful new art exhibition, Healing in Colour, was officially launched on Wednesday, September 10 at University Hospital Galway by Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Mike Cubbard. The exhibition showcases a deeply moving collection of artworks created through a series of participatory art workshops held in hospital and community settings across Galway City. Patients and visitors can view the artwork on the Arts Corridor in UHG until November 28th.

The exhibition is part of the Mending HeArts Project, an initiative that brings professional artists into healthcare and community settings to support people recovering from cardiovascular disease and stroke. Workshops took place in University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park University Hospital, and Croí the Heart and Stroke Charity, offering participants the opportunity to explore painting, printmaking, collage, and mixed media in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Speaking at the launch, Cllr. Cubbard praised the initiative: “This exhibition is a powerful example of how creativity belongs in our healthcare services, not as an afterthought, but as an essential part of recovery. This exhibition shows how art can support people in recovery, while also strengthening our sense of community.”

Healing in Colour celebrates the emotional journeys of those living with illness, offering a glimpse into personal stories of vulnerability, strength, and recovery. It showcases how the integration of creative practices in healthcare can enhance emotional wellbeing and community connection.

Maria Molloy, Deputy General Manager, Galway University Hospitals, said: “The Mending HeArts Project aims to create a clear pathway of support that follows patients from hospital through to their return to the community. There is a real need to embed initiatives like this into our healthcare system as part of a holistic approach, where emotional and social wellbeing are supported alongside clinical care throughout the recovery journey.”

Orla O’Donnell, Mending HeArts participant said: “[The Mending HeArts workshops] reopened experiences that I had forgotten about, and that I loved.”

Funded by Creative Ireland, the Mending HeArts project is delivered in partnership by Saolta Arts, HSE West and North West, Galway City Council, Galway County Council, Croí the Heart and Stroke Charity, and Healthy Ireland. It highlights the transformative power of arts in healthcare and the impact of collaboration between government bodies and non-profits. It demonstrates how creativity can be embedded sustainably in healthcare, not as a one-off project, but as a sustainable model to enhance patient care.

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