New ‘Lights of Life’ artwork brings calm and creativity to Northumbria Healthcare

New art pieces created by artist Sara Blackburn, Northumbria Healthcare staff and local community group Northern Butterflies have been unveiled as part of the Lights of Life project.

The project celebrates nature and the arrival of spring, encouraging people to slow down, notice the world around them, and find moments of calm within busy healthcare settings.

Sara’s installation features four illuminated artworks depicting sleeping animals surrounded by natural elements. The pieces will be on display at the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital (NSECH) in Cramlington until the end of May.

Each artwork is accompanied by an original haiku written by the Trust’s staff creative writing group. The group also worked with sound artist Gary Bowden and produced four mindful and meditative audio pieces to help people connect with natural spaces and support their wellbeing.

On Thursday 26 March, guests gathered outside of NSECH’s canteen for a special after‑dark viewing. Vibrant lanterns and light installations created by Northumbria staff, Northern Butterflies and members of the community were displayed especially for this event.

Sam Goodlet, Manager for Northern Butterflies, said: “It has been a privilege to be part of such a meaningful project, working with a great team dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives through art, light and audio.”

Leanne, a member of Northern Butterflies, added: “I was really proud of the work we had made and how it all came together. Proud of how far we have come. I really loved the audio we did with Gary; it worked so well with the artwork.”

The relaxed evening gave attendees the chance to meet, celebrate their collective creativity, and experience the installation in the calming atmosphere it was designed for.

Katie Dawson, Bright Charity’s healing arts programme manager, said: “It was really special to have everyone come together and experience this amazing artwork. Bright is proud to support not only staff wellbeing through art, but also our local communities.”

Delivered by Wonder Made Wild and Gary Bowden Music on behalf of Northern Butterflies, the project was created in collaboration with Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity’s Healing Arts team and funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, with additional support from Bright.

You can listen to the accompanying audio pieces on Northumbria NHS’ official YouTube channel: