Arts for Health MK Programmes Administrator Naomi
Quilts for Carers

In the next instalment of our Twenty for Twenty series, we ask Arts for Health MK Programmes Administrator Naomi to select a favourite artwork.

Which work in The Collection have you chosen to talk about?

The mixed media quilt by Quilts for Carer’s created and donated to the hospital in 2020.

When and how did you first see it?

As a member of the Arts for Health MK team, I spotted it on my return to the hospital site after the Covid-19 pandemic. I was walking down the main corridor on my way to a meeting in the coffee shop and this collaborative piece caught my eye.


What first interested or attracted you to this artwork?

I am particularly drawn to textile works and have had an interest in it for many years. The patchwork designs, colours and mixture of plain and patterned fabrics make this piece truly unique. It reminds us of some of the rules imposed by the government during the Covid pandemic. I love how the piece tells a story of the gratitude the public felt towards our carers during this strange time, whether they were NHS staff, police officers, fire service or hospice workers. The rainbow is central to the piece, a symbol of hope and unity and reminding us of the resilience and strength of communities during challenging times.


Do you remember how seeing this work made you feel?

Having created my own quilted cushion for a school project, I understand the detailed work that goes into creating such a piece and felt some resonance with the creators. It reminded me of some lego character posters that myself and my son coloured and put up in our front window to thank carers from across our community. I love the sustainability of this piece, framed behind glass to ensure it can be enjoyed by all for many years to come.


In general, what kind of impact do you think seeing art at MKUH has on your experience of being on the hospital site?

As a frequent visitor to the hospital site, the art uplifts my mood and makes me feel gratitude to be surrounded by such artistic talent displayed in our community. The first time a piece of work had an impact on me in the hospital was at a 9 week ultrasound appointment. A nurse gently told me there was no heartbeat. I was asked to sit in a small waiting room with only two chairs and a piece of artwork. During this sad time, it helped me feel like another presence was in the room and comforted me.


Contributors: Naomi
Naomi is Arts for Health MK’s Administrator (Organisation and Programmes) , she is the friendly voice on the other end of the line for our workshop participants, artists and community partners. You can find out more about our current programmes here. 


More from Quilts for Carers

Quilts for carers kindly donated two artworks to the hospital back in 2020, the other sits in the staff hub, warming the space whilst or colleagues enjoy a well-deserved tea break.