Uplifting artwork from professional artists and local community artists has started to arrive at Witney Community Hospital in response to stories from patients about what makes them smile.

Creating with Care has been working with IID dance company as well as staff and patients at Witney Community Hospital to find out what makes them smile. We have encouraged patients to become storytellers to inspire artists and the community.

Artistic Director and choreographer John Darvell of NOCTURN has combined several of the stories to create this beautiful dance film with Videographer Peter Anderson. Created with fellow performer Tom Davis Dunn they were particularly inspired by Ken and Steve who talk about their love of steam trains, Pat who wants to hold love ones close and Martin who talks about respect and kindness which was reflected in Joyce's 'supporting hands and helping reach'. This was echoed in their own movement, clasping their hands and holding tight. 

Professional artist Anne-Marie Cadman was inspired by Joyce's Story to create a collage showing some of the many things that make Joyce happy. Whilst Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust volunteer Smitha Vinod created this watercolour for Joyce inspired by her love for nature and flowers.

Visual Artist Dionne Freeman created this scene inspired by Michael's story, who said that he enjoyed nature and walking.

Artwork and stories are being curated for an exhibition at Witney Community Hospital this summer and we are still looking for artists of all ages and abilities to respond to stories artwork can be in any format. Visit IID's website for more information and to read the stories here - IID

This project is part of iID's Smile Inside project funded by Arts Council England and West Oxfordshire District Council, supported by Oxford Health Charity through Creating with Care.