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Grampian Hospitals Art Trust (GHAT) has been in existence for 19 years, and is, quite rightly, nationally recognised for having on display the largest collection of contemporary art of any NHS region in Scotland, with over 4000 pieces by, at the last count, 476 artists in 45 healthcare venues throughout the Grampian Region. Impressive statistics by any standards, and now with the inclusion of the major works specially commissioned for the new Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital, the collection has moved on to even greater status, both in quality and ambition.
When the surgeon, Norman Matheson, initiated the original concept, his master stroke was to involve a group of highly respected artists and designers who had a breadth of approach with different skills and interests, who were able to advise
on the quality and diversification of art, either purchased or commissioned for GHAT. They were also involved in the selecting of exhibitions for the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary gallery (another GHAT initiative) choosing and presenting work for all the many venues, advising, preparing and proposing projects and providing vital and practical support to GHAT’s Trustees, Board of Management, different committees and staff. The voluntary services of the Art Advisers are at the very core of the success of GHAT.
NHS Grampian is now well accustomed to having ‘art’ on display, so there was never any doubt that GHAT would play an important part in any artistic proposals for the new RACH. But this was different from any other previous situation in the
scale, complexity and costs involved. The only way was to work as part of a team – The RACH Arts Project Group.
‘Art by Committee’ is notoriously difficult and there is always the danger that bland and safe solutions might be the outcome. But this group had very clear and focused objectives and over the four years stuck to the long and seemingly endless task. Of course they disagreed on lots of things, but the debates were
always healthy, minds were changed and tough decisions made. The hard work of all concerned is now a reality in the marvellous and varied collection of unique pieces created specifically for RACH. GHAT’s involvement in RACH does not end with these recent installations. There are always more pieces to go in and the care and maintenance of the art is on going. GHAT’s mission statement of ‘using art for the benefit of patients, staff and visitors in Grampian healthcare spaces’ has been magnificently fulfilled in this delightful new building.
Malcolm McCoig was Chairman of GHAT from 1999–2004
Representing GHAT on The RACH Arts Project Group were Malcolm McCoig, artist Syd Burnett, and Jane Kidd, GHAT’s administrator. |
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