Re:Surface showcases ceramic and print work produced by participants of an Arts in Health project at the Ceramics Studio at the Bethlem Royal Hospital. With a specific focus on surface design and the transferability of printmaking to ceramics, participants were invited to use imagery from their mental health recovery journeys to adorn and personalise a unique set of functional ceramic objects, showcasing their abilities and talent.

For many people who have been on an impatient mental health ward, being discharged back to the community can be an incredibly challenging time. Withdrawal from treatments or services can evoke strong emotions and impact on a person’s functioning and self-esteem, particularly as for many, having to spend time in hospital may have meant a loss of paid occupation, a reduction in social networks or he abandonment of leisure pursuits. These circumstances can often lead to uncertainty about the future and what to do next.

Re:Surface highlights a sense of shared enthusiasm and a capacity for people to work well together on a shared project through a particularly challenging time: the Covid-19 pandemic. By providing a safe and inspiring workspace, participants were supported to build their confidence and mastery of skills within ceramics and printmaking.

This exhibition celebrates the creative output and skills developed by participants through three blocks of Re:Surface workshops that took place from January until December 2021. Participants developed two themes: The Natural World and Everyday Objects to motivate, inspire, and pique curiosity while still leaving plenty of room from personal expression and interest.

“For me, the success of the project lies in the ability of vulnerable people to share their stories so openly and take risks creatively.”

Terence Wilde – Project Organiser and Curator

“Re:Surface has been an excellent way to connect creativity with service users living in the community. There is a real need for projects of this nature, where we can support people to recover from a different time via getting in touch with their artistic selves and establishing positive relationships with others who have had a similar experience. The fact that many of our participants reported that the only thing they would change is for the project to be longer is testament to this.”

Evelyn Pelayo Portela – Project Organiser and Curator

All the works from the Re:Surface Collection will be for sale at a special sale-day event in June, details to be announced soon.

The Ceramic is part of Main Occupational Therapy Department at Bethlem Royal Hospital.