Commissions for Compton Hospice, Wolverhampton

'Memory Pool', 'Butterfly Field, 'Memoryscape' and 'Compton Hospice Memories' were commissioned by Compton Hospice, Wolverhampton, as part of a series of paintings based on the theme of memories. They were installed in 2007.

'Memory Pool' was a large piece installed as the main feature for The Wulfruna Lounge.
(acrylic on canvas, 140 x 160cm)

Many of the happy memories fondly recounted were based on beautiful places that were visited or lived in, and there are several depicted in the painting. The artist utilises her unique style of ‘bent perspective' to incorporate the symbols, images and colours so that they flow and move into each other. Acrylic paint is embellished with other media such as real 24K gold leaf to add texture and depth.

This painting depicts the most favourite and fondest recollections of patients and staff from their lives and experiences as interpreted by the artist.

The piece contains many symbols that aim to capture and represent the liveliness, vibrancy and happiness of those heartfelt moments.

The inspiration behind the images came from artworks produced by the patients and staff themselves in workshops held at the hospice. On the theme of ‘memories', participants engaged in activities that prompted memories of places they have visited, their likes and loves etc.

As love is a central aspect of life for everybody around the world, it is fitting that at the centre of the ‘memory pool' the heart appears to symbolise the love for friends and family past and present.

Patient in situ

If you look closely you can see a beautiful sunset over Jamaican landscape complete with Mango trees, and the enchanting coast of Wexford in Ireland. Can you spot the ‘forget me not' flowers and the ‘four leaf clovers' that are supposed to bring good luck? Also visible is the much loved seaside of Brighton and Hove, the Devon coastline, the dam at Lake Vyrnwy in Wales, the picturesque valleys and mountains of the Lake District in Cumbria which also includes a waterfall. In the top left and right corners, the setting sun is balanced by a rising moon, which signifies the new memories that can be recalled at the end of every day. Numerous patients and staff expressed a love for fishing and being in ‘the great out doors'. The artist has painted ‘Koi Carp' a Japanese originated fish that is unanimously beautiful and tranquil; in Japanese legend this fish represents love, affection and friendship. There is a host of imagery subtly hidden away that are equally significant. Music is a powerful medium for provoking strong memories of good times, laughter and happiness. Can you spot the musical notes and stave that flow around one ring of the pool?

Rebecca thanks the Hospice, staff and patients for providing the opportunity and inspiration. Their special memories and hard work helped to create this piece. She says: "A big thank you to the hospice for providing me with the opportunity to be part of this fantastic project and to Sue Hope, interior designer and glass artist for collaborating with me! I hope my work provides a calming focus to be enjoyed by everyone who uses, works and visits the hospice."

© Rebecca Cresswell 2008