New artwork installed at Worthing Hospital in tribute to colleague
It's part of a newly-opened assessment unit there
A new painting has been installed at Worthing Hospital as a tribute to a much-loved member of staff.
Andrea Clements, who died earlier this year, has been described as a 'kind-hearted' member of the team.
Sister Vanessa Foley and her colleagues commissioned a painting to be installed in Andrea's memory at the entrance of the newly developed pre-operative assessment unit, which opened last month.
Vanessa said:
“Andrea was a beautiful soul with a wicked sense of humour! She loved the stars and the night sky.
"When she passed, we wanted to do something in her memory.”
The piece has been created by Horace, the artist also known as the 'Worthing Banksy', and features Pooh Bear and Piglet.
Vanessa explained:
"It’s up for everyone to enjoy and benefit, but also for staff who knew her to remember her by and know the significance of Pooh Bear.
“Andrea chose a quote for her funeral from Winnie-the-Pooh, ‘Memories are Forever’, which we will be getting engraved on a plaque next to the painting as a message from Andrea.
"The artwork was installed last night (December 23rd), and the first patient who walked in today was absolutely mesmerised by it.
"It’s stunning and the further back you stand, the more colours you see.”
The artwork is placed at the entrance of the new pre-operative assessment unit, which now provides the department 30% more floor area than they had previously and a 40% increase in consult rooms, contributing to improved theatre usage.
The new unit also provides essential pre-operative testing within the department, reducing the need for multiple appointments prior to surgery and reducing pressure on other departments, which has improved patient experience.
Vanessa Foley said:
“This new unit is designed for our needs. It’s lighter and airier and much more accessible.
"We’re also much better set up to assess a whole range of patients, including those with disabilities and bariatric patients.”
The artwork is the second time that Horace has created a piece specifically to honour NHS workers in West Sussex during the coronavirus pandemic.
A mural depicting nurses as angels in a multitude of different colours was installed at St Richard's Hospital in Chichester in October.