ROYAL HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN, GLASGOW
I was invited to create a series of illustrations for the walls of the RHC's children's theatre department, taking visitors on a journey from reception to theatre.
The illustrations form part of the department's transformation into a friendly and uplifting environment. Funded by Glasgow Children's Hospital, this project was spear-headed by consultant anaesthetist Dr Aly Walker and led by Graven design studio. Working closely with Aly, and Graven's Ross Hunter and Renée Chater, I designed illustrations informed by ideas gathered from the hospital's community; patients, carers and staff, as well as referencing the heritage of the institution.
The pieces I created are designed to reduce anxiety through distraction. They are full of stories inspired by real people, places and events, interspersed with moments of gratuitous silliness.
RECEPTION
WHAT A VIEW! (WELCOME DESK)
On the rooftop of a Victorian glasshouse filled with colourful plants, we look out across a city. The skyline, featuring Glasgow University, is based on a view from the hospital's previous location at Yorkhill. Likely the first illustration we will encounter on our journey, this tranquil scene invites us to pause for a moment and take in our surroundings.
UP, DOWN, AROUND THE TOWN (WAITING AREA)
Looking around this bustling urban scene we see familiar sights; people working in offices or relaxing at home, popping to the shops or playing in parks, visiting museums or splashing about in the swimming pool. Looking closer, this everyday scene is full of surprises. People climb up buildings and zoom down flumes attached to office blocks, and eleven animals blend in with the crowd, including a knitting monkey and a parachuting panda.
The heritage of the hospital is hinted at through the architecture: four former sites of the hospital are represented, as well as several historical characters - wealthy Victorian women who funded the original hospital, Edwardian nurses, and soldiers treated there during the First World War.
There are lots of little details to spot including zebras, the symbol for rare diseases; odd socks which represent Down's Syndrome and an orange and black refugee flag.
CORRIDORS
THROUGH BLUEBELL WOODS
Inspired by drawings I made on train journeys from Dundee to Glasgow, each corridor features a different view to help you get your bearings. Through Bluebell Woods, look out for Merlin the monkey or Carlos the tiger who will guide you to the right theatre. (The porter will also help.)
BY THE LOCHSIDE
It's always sunny by the loch, even if the water might be a bit cold. Looking for Theatre 4? Follow Flo dolphin (but look out for sharks.)
INTO THE HILLS
In the hills you might spot Rusty McTavish on his quad bike. He'll show you to Theatre 6, If you can keep up. You may also spot a tree bound to a stake. This is the Tree of Andry, the symbol for orthopaedics.
ANAESTHETIC ROOMS
(ONGOING SERIES)
Following our animal companion into the anaesthetic room, we see them at home with their family, posing for a portrait. Looking ahead, we are greeted with a country vista full of silly moments and some characters you might recognise.
The narrative details in these illustrations provide lots of opportunities for staff to engage and distract patients before administering anaesthetic, reducing anxiety for patients and their carers.
