Students from Egglescliffe School have donated new artwork to help create a peaceful and comforting environment for families experiencing baby loss.
Now in place in the Snowdrop Suite at the University Hospital of North Tees, the two new pieces were painted by the pupils following the personal experience of one of their teachers – who spent time in the Snowdrop Suite following the loss of her son.
After reading about student artwork from Yarm School being displayed at the hospital last summer, the teacher and Egglescliffe School approached the maternity team with the idea of getting pupils to create bespoke pieces for the Snowdrop Suite.
Working alongside bereavement midwife Laura Smith and midwifery staff, pupils were invited to take part in a mini art competition and given the theme of ‘creating calm and comfort through art’.
Laura Smith, bereavement midwife, said: “The Snowdrop Suite provides a dedicated space for families experiencing the heartbreak of losing a baby, and creating a calm, welcoming environment is incredibly important.
The enthusiasm and good will of pupils at Egglescliffe to create something for this space is appreciated by our team and we are so grateful to everyone who has been involved in this project.”
Students were encouraged to consider imagery that would help families feel relaxed, safe and peaceful. They drew inspiration from nature, seascapes, soft skies, sunsets, forests and calming abstract shapes.
The first piece, titled ‘Gentle currents carry hope’, was created by Year 7 and Year 8 students. The diptych is painted on two canvas boards using acrylic paint and was inspired by the work of Vincent van Gogh. It combines swirling water, koi carp and water lilies. Rich colours create a serene, dreamlike atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of nature.
The second piece, ‘Light finds its way through’, was created by Year 10 students and is painted across three panels (know as a triptych). The piece is influenced by impressionist and post-impressionist styles, and combines vibrant colours, expressive brushwork and light to evoke a sense of tranquillity and of magical exploration.
The project resulted in two striking artworks which will now be displayed within the Snowdrop Suite and corridor.
Laura continues: “The students have created such thoughtful and beautiful pieces of artwork. They have clearly taken great care to consider what families may need during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
“I know that this artwork will be very much appreciated for years to come by families cared for within our Snowdrop Suite.”