En’Light’en – Creating Dynamic Healthcare Environments

ART, LIGHT AND WELLBEING

Taking time to reflect on work so far, it is great to look at what has been achieved and how the audience has responded to the installations completed over the last 12 months…
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS:
• Appointment as Leverhulme Artist in Residence, Durham University, January 2017
• Ongoing collaborative work with scientists, academics, architects and health care professionals
• The creation of 6 new commissions
• Installation of the new works in two healthcare settings – Marie Curie Hospice and James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough
• Installation of 2 new works in Cheeseburn Sculpture Park
• Installation of work in Hatfiled College, Durham
• Installation of work in Wolfson Building, Queens Campus, Stockton on Tees
• Exhibition of work in progress at the ‘Process’ exhibition, Gallery space, 36 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne
• Presentation of the En’Light’en Project at an International Symposium in Berlin
• Collection of qualitative and quantitative feedback
AUDIENCE RESPONSE
Evaluation of the impact of the installations extended beyond anecdotal reporting, with scientists and academics from Durham University applying quantitative methods to measure a range of variables. Changes in the quality and the levels of light, both before and after installation of the works were monitored. Responses of those experiencing the works were measured and behavioural observations illustrated changes in how people moved in the spaces and where they chose to sit or spend time following installation. These changes confirmed the qualitative reporting, obtained through the questionnaires and one to one discussions, which demonstrated very positive responses to light the installations.

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The audience repeatedly referred to the ‘beauty’ of the observed lighting phenomena and this was a notable response to all the of the installations. Rhythmic light patterns and movement were reported to have a relaxing effect and the changeability of the works created interest and a sense of ‘uplift’ for many experiencing the work.
The project has enabled me to explore new materials and working methods and the opportunity to collaborate with others and engage with the audience has been a rich and powerful experience. There are many ways in which this project will guide and inform my future artistic practice and in my current position of Artist in Residence at Durham University, I will continue to build on this exciting collaborative work, uniting art and scientific research.

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