Students design murals for new hospital building

A group of art students have seen their work unveiled at a hospital that is undergoing a major transformation.

Two 9m (30ft) murals have been installed at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital's new BEACH building.

University Hospitals Dorset NHS Trust collaborated with Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) on the project as part of the trust's £500m transformation programme.

The artworks - Emerging Kingfisher and Dorset Diorama - were created by interior architecture and design students Emily Bishop, Yulia Klajnscek, Rhea Hackwell and Olivia Greatrex, under the creative direction of AUB graduate Lenya Hulford-Greig.

The murals have been unveiled at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital

Ms Hulford-Grieg said: "The kingfisher artwork was inspired by the birds that visit the lake at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. Kingfishers are considered lucky birds, representing beauty and grace."

She said the second mural aimed to help people feel "connected to the local area".

Laura Joy, the hospital trust's arts manager, said: "This collaboration demonstrates the positive impact of creative partnerships between education and healthcare, enriching public spaces while offering emerging artists the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to their community."

It is hoped the project will become an annual event - partnering with local emerging artists and education providers.

The mural costs were supported by the NHS trust build budget for the new hospital building and the arts manager role is funded by University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.