We have recently installed a brand new series of unique artworks and design interventions from multi-disciplinary artist Yinka Ilori in the St Stephen’s Centre, part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Working in collaboration with the sexual health team, Ilori has designed a series of colourful wall art installations and accompanying prints to bring cheer and lift the mood for patients and staff. This large-scale commission incorporates both John Hunter and Kobler clinics.
In May 2020, we launched our collaboration with Ilori, in association with Kensington + Chelsea Art Week. Ilori created street art inspired by his work for Chelsea and Westminster Hospital which provided a hopeful and joyous pop of colour to the local community in what has been such a difficult year.
“Over the years I have worked on a number of art commissions but this one is important, now more than ever in view of what is happening in today’s world. I hope it brings joy, peace and calmness into people’s lives today, forever and in times of need,” explains Ilori.
Ilori aims to provide messages of positivity and inspiration during these challenging times in his practice, which fuses his British and Nigerian heritage to tell new stories in contemporary design. Known for his use of bold patterns and vibrant colours, the West London-based artist has developed a new and cohesive visual identity at the hospital to support patient, staff, and visitor wellbeing at what can often be a time of high stress.
Ilori’s installations are part of our Arts in Health programme, which has been at the forefront of the global arts in health movement for more than a quarter of a century. “The artworks designed by Yinka Ilori are very much in keeping with our overall philosophy at CW+ to make hospital areas as aesthetically pleasing and calm as possible,” says Trystan Hawkins, our Patient Environment Director. “These art and design works will survive long beyond the end of COVID-19, enhancing patient, visitor and staff experience.”
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