Midlothian Community Hospital Art Strategy

7/30/2019 Midlothian Community Hospital Art Strategy

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MIDLOTHIAN COMMUNITY HOSPITALSTAGE 2 PUBLIC ART STRATEGY

PREPARED BY: ARTLINK Edinburgh and the LothiansFOR: Midlothian Planning Department

AUGUST 2010


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MIDLOTHIAN COMMUNITY HOSPITALPublic Ar t Implementation Plan - Overv iew

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Artlink has worked closely with the NHS Lothian Capital Planning and PremisesDevelopment to develop a comprehensive approach to public art for the MidlothianCommunity Hospital. Artlink has many years of experience of working in the arts in thepublic realm. The organisation has worked in partnership with NHS Lothian since 1985and has completed many public arts commission in its hospitals.

1.2 Artlink is recognised by the Scottish Arts Council as a national strategically importantorganisation and has Foundation Funded status. This status was achieved in recognitionof the quality of the work it produces and the unique approach to working with artists andspecific communities. In our work we place great emphasis on relevance to context andlocality, supporting artists to work in a way where they produce creative solutionswhich encourages real involvement of target user groups and ties in local initiatives andorganisations in the overall scope of the project/programme activity.

1.3 In terms of developing the approach within the specific context of the MidlothianCommunity Hospital several converging elements have been taken into account. Theseare the:- Specific function of the healthcare facility- Needs and interests of the patient and staff groups- Interests of the locality (e.g. demographic of visitors, local community)- Local context (e.g. local history, location)- Design approach taken by the architect- Approach taken by the landscape architect

1.4 These elements, together with a detailed knowledge of the value of the arts within a

healthcare context, informed the brief for a lead artist to be appointed. The rationale forappointing a lead artist was to ensure a coherent approach to the different elementsidentified within the original brief for public arts as presented to Artlink by NHS Lothian.

Taking this approach also allowed for involvement of local crafts people in informing andmaking some of the works. Specific attention was paid to the planning conditionsintimated by Midlothian Council Planning Department, but also a wider view was taken interms of the potential that the site presents. In response Artlink devised an outlineapproach, and subsequently an artist brief, that reflected two stages, the first which dealtwith the immediate built environment (courtyards) the second with the larger site and thepotential this brings to develop a more significant public arts intervention.

1.5 J ames McLardy was subsequently appointed Lead Artist by a committee which includedrepresentation from NHS Lothian Capital Planning and Development, Staff, Public

Partnership Forum (representing patient interests), Architects and Developers. (LeadArtist statement and CV attached at the end of this document). This committee, withadditional input from staff, relatives and local community & businesses as the programmedeveloped, became the core Reference Group for Artlink and the artists and ensuredthat the approach developed by the Lead Artist was informed by the needs of thepotential user groups and the locality. The Lead Artist has also been responsible forensuring that coherence was brought to the overall scheme and has had responsibility foridentifying other artist and crafts people who were able to contribute their specific skills tothe scheme.


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2.0 General Approach

2.1 The Lead Artist has been working in Midlothian since the start of J uly 2009 researching

the particular context with an aim of formulating responses which met the needs ofpatient, staff groups and the locality. Careful attention was paid to addressing theplanning conditions intimated by Midlothian Council. The overall aim has been to createan imaginative and coherent response which has the appropriate longevity for thisparticular situation.

2.2 In this research particular themes emerged relevant to the user group and locality andprovided the context for the developing creative approach. The themes were:

- Design approaches specific to dementia and psychiatric care- The history and context of the current healthcare locations (i.e. Rosslynlee &

Loanhead)- Local history concerning industry (e.g. crafts, mining, agriculture) informing the

broader context- Contemporary local industry providing an additional specific dimension- Importance of social dynamics and inclusion in making sure that work is

supported and respected in the long term- Sustainability and environmental issues - specific factors which could add value

to the artistic approach

2.3 Taking these themes/considerations as a starting point the artist identified approaches toproviding a sculptural response to framing or staging as particularly relevant to thissituation. This would bring coherence to the treatment of the external courtyards andterraces of the new building with a similar framing approach also being utilised in thespace external to the hospital. This main approach would also allow for the interior spaceto receive a similar treatment by presenting a specific context where changing exhibitionsor semi-permanent/permanent works could be presented. This way of working evolved

uniquely for this situation, but in fact is not dissimilar to an example of good practice inpublic art identified latterly at the Centre for Health Science, Invernesshttp://www.centreforhealthscience.com/Public-Art-2-g.asp .

2.4 Taking the framing or staging approach has been the means by which some of thefunctional elements (i.e. seating) have been delivered but through a sculptural form whichalso incorporates some of the sensory elements. It has also allowed the differentwards/hospitals to bring with them their own (trusted) outdoor furniture suitable for use byolder people without affecting the overall scheme.

2.5 Close consideration has also being given to the social and industrial history of the area.There are subtle references to the social and industrial heritage that have been broughtinto the overall scheme through the pieces within the external courtyard areas which

suggest optimism and a sense of new beginnings rather than placing too much emphasison the past. With the interior areas there is significant scope to work with local heritageproviders (such as the Scottish Mining Museum) to provide changing displays tostimulate the long term patients within the hospital.

2.6 In the overall scheme a collaborative approach has being pursued not only in developingthe concepts for the artwork but also in the manufacture of the sculptural elements, theuse and maintenance of the external spaces and the concept development for theinternal spaces.


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3.0 Actual & Expected Outcomes

3.1 Taking the initial brief and planning requirements as the starting point the artist has

ensured that the creative response has been:

- Collaborative in its approach- Sensitive to the needs of the specific user group (i.e. people with Dementia)- Relevant to the experiences of the user group and locality- Contextualised within the local history- Providing opportunities for long term engagement with the locality

3.2 The priorities for treatment were established with the Reference Group. These were theexternal courtyard spaces created by the new building form, Stage 1, and the wider site,Stage 2.

3.3 Stage 1

3.3.1 The response for the external courtyards included making use of oak trees to befelled at Rosslynlee as part of routine estate maintenance and working with alocal green wood specialist to create the sculptural framing for the courtyards.

These include temporary seating, an archway and plinth elements. Using thefelled trees has also subtly brought some of the old Rosslynlee site into the new.

The designs have been inspired by arts and crafts shapes and constructed usingtraditional methods. The framing also allowed for additional interactive/sensoryelements to be incorporated.

Green Oak Frames for Iron Gates Green Oak Bench

Green Oak Bench Green Oak Garden Seat


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3.3.2 The basic framing and sensory elements created by the local craftsmen providethe plinths on which other sensory and sculptural approaches can be placed.

The types of approaches explored and implemented are:

3.3.3 Iron gates to be fixed to some of the designed archway type oak frames. Theseelements were identified as being specifically important interactive elements forthe particular user group by staff and the Stirling University Centre for Dementia,and have allowed collaboration with a local blacksmith in the manufacturing ofthese elements.

3.3.4 Another element which provides a sensory, social and historical dimension willbe the turned metal elements provided in collaboration with MacTaggart Scott ofLoanhead. The appointed lead artist has established an opportunity for ClaireBarclay, an artist who works with this material, to make use of their veryspecialist production facilities to create high quality turned metal sculptures at lowcost.

3.3.5 The stage 1 works are now nearing completion on site, anticipated to be the endof August 2010. A full photographic record of this stage will be presented toMidlothian Planning Department concluding the first part of the Percentage forArt planning condition placed upon NHS Lothian.

3.4 Stage 2

3.4.1. Outline ApproachThe approach for the 2

ndStage for public art for the Midlothian Community

Hospital site, the large outdoor area, was informed by the fact that what willpotentially be missed at the new site is the opportunity for visitors to take theirrelatives for a walk. In response the artist started looking into the possibility ofcreating a landscaped area outside the hospital with a walled garden, with the

wall being the sculptural element of the response.

This type of approach was considered to ensure coherence in treatment inrelation to both internal and external areas. The framing provides a focus whichallows other landscaping elements and approaches to develop around it.Sources for this stage considered the work of Ian Hamilton Finlay, Piet Oudlof,Charles J encks, Dumbreck March Art Project, The Hidden Gardens and manyothers. In developing the approach consideration has also been given in terms ofhow the patients and relatives identify with and navigate to the external space.

To lead patients, relatives and the public to the specific features distinct pavedareas were also considered.

There was also potential to make use of further green oak framing to create

coherence in approach between the internal courtyards and the wider externalspace and provide further focus to lead patients, visitors and the general public tothe walled garden area.

Further work to develop the soft landscaping is also being considered, both interms of adding more detail and value to the landscaping and its potential fortherapeutic use. This will be planned so that it can be accommodated within anoverall approach currently pursued by NHS Lothian and led by the NHS LothianChairman with regard to establishing community gardens on NHS Lothian vacantsites. Progress has also been made towards establishing wider involvement inthis phase of the project.


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3.4.2. Concept DevelopmentDuring the first of a series of community consultations at the Orchard Centre,Bonnyrigg it was collectively agreed that the concept of a walled garden was

something people present were keen and willing to get involved in. A number ofmembers put themselves forwards for proposed activities including design,construction and planting. It was stipulated during this meeting that the stage twoart commission budget will be committed to creating a unique feature which, willact as boundary to enhance a community/hospital-led growing space (this isline with points raised during consultations with hospital staff over the last fewmonths).

Subsequent design sessions allowed interested parties to collaborate on thedevelopment of a number of forms using a range of possible materials, texturesand colours, which included:

a. Stone: dry stone, large boulders or slabsb. Gabions/mesh cages: with rocks, pebblesc. Brick: ceramic, hand maded. Concrete: small cast blocks decoratively moulded, site built (poured into

wooden moulds), pipes, bought large precast blockse. Surface/Finish considerations: pigments, painted, surface, aggregates,

mosaic. Timber: decking, posts, logs, greenwoodf. Earth: Rammed earth, earthworks such as ditches, mounds etcg. Planted environments: living willow, Green roofed structures,

Greenwalls, rockeries, hedges, fruit trees etc.h. Recycled materials: tiles, tyres, brick, glass, plastics, barrels, railway

sleepers, telegraph poles

3.4.3. Final DesignIt became clear from these brainstorming sessions with the staff, and further

community consultations, that the artwork had the potential to be composed ofmany different forms and functions. However after collectively compiling a list ofthe practical and formal design considerations such ashealth and safety,aesthetic appeal, potential functions, mental stimulation, location within grounds,positive health implications, the need for ease of access and sunlight, we wereable to break this down into three main subject areas which were as follows:

a. Earthworks with main door/archway featureb. Wall using aforementioned materialsc. Centre/base functional area, such as outdoor kitchend. A number of sculpture objects incorporating a number of these items

These main subject areas were then explored through a number of

drawing/discussion based workshops with the community at Bonnyrigg Town Halland have subsequently been presented to MCH hospital staff for approval in theform of architecture animations. Please see images 1-4


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Image 1Sculptural Interpretation of Walled Garden using stone providing a focal point forrelatives and patients taking walks in the grounds

Image 2Walled Garden Earthwork with entrance point


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Image 3Walled feature providing a focal point for social events and gatherings

Image 4Connected sculptural elements providing a walled feature which frames a smallcommunity garden. The Main Elements / Earthwork, Garden, Archway & Wall

The resultant staff decision has led the commissioned artist to propose the finalartworks using a series of drawings illustrating the final design within the siteplan. Please see images 5-7.


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Image 5Green Oak Wall

Organic form using 50 70 curved elements made from 150 200 mm thickgreen oak (for lengths) and 300 350mm thick green oak poles for uprights.Maximum (post) height 4800mm Estimated Length 6000mm.Artwork fabrication overseen by Malcolm Lemmon.


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Image 6Archway Sculpture

Geometric cast Double Arched sculpture in a white marble effect.The dimensions of the standing arch section of the structure are 2200mm highby 1100 mm wide, with a column thickness of about 300mm (squared for thepurposes of the volume estimate).Artwork fabrication overseen by J ames McLardy.


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Image 7Main Earthwork in context with Community Garden, Wall & Archway

Landscaping/ earthworksA shaped and planted earth bund forming enclosure to the new community andhospital garden area. Setting out and formation now complete on the site.

3.4.4 Community GardensAs identified in 3.4.1, there is significant support within NHS Lothian for thefurther development of the external landscaped area through the creation ofCommunity Gardens. This is an initiative currently led by the Chairman of NHSLothian and being actively pursued within the grounds of the Royal EdinburghHospital.

After making initial enquiries it is clear that there is scope to develop this concepton this site. Both NHS Lothian Public Health and the Midlothian CommunityHealth Partnership are actively involved in supporting the development of healthyliving through active involvement. Both have expressed support for thedevelopment of such an approach on the site.

However further development would require a clear understanding of thecontractual arrangements between NHS Lothian and Robertson Group withregard to landscaping and grounds maintenance. A clear managementprocedure would need to be established to ensure that further development issustainable.

Further resources required for this type of development can be accessed throughcommunity health care funding, climate challenge funding, coalfield regenerationfunding, European funding (TyneEsk leader) and trust and foundations.


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3.4.5 Stage 2 TimescalesPending acceptance by Midlothian P lanning Department of the general stage 2art strategy presented here, it is hoped that the key elements identified above,

the enclosing earthwork bund, the green oak wall and the archway will bedelivered by December 2010. The Community Garden Project will continue toevolve over the foreseeable future.

4.0 James McLardy - Lead Artis ts Statement

Within the context of my studio practice I work with a wide range of both traditional andmodern techniques to create sculpture, drawing and film works. Recent gallery basedartworks have evolved from research into hermits, caves, wells, grottos and stone folliespresent in Eighteenth century gardens and estates throughout Europe. My studio practiceplays an important role in my approach to working with the wider community as brings ahigh level of cross disciplinary interaction and technical ability through the sustained useof various workshop facilities at the Glasgow Sculpture studios.

In parallel with work designed for the gallery context, I am involved with residencies,events and commissions which examine the collective notion of artistic exchange.Collectivism plays a key role in the development of my work and has had a major impacton the way I make work. I am particularly concerned with how the process ofcollaboration with institutions and the wider community can forge new, intuitive andinclusive ways to communicate concepts and ideas. This way of working would form thebasis of my approach to the role of Lead Artist to support the implementation of publicarts programme for the Midlothian Community Hospital

Over the last ten years I have worked with a wide range of public bodies and institutions.I began working collaboratively in 2002 whilst on a three month artist in residence at theWhitechapel Gallery, East London. This residency cumulated in an audio art event in thegallery which was performed by pupils from a local secondary school. Since then I have

worked with many community groups exploring many methods of dialog and developing avariety of artworks including, shelters, furniture, animations, flags, architecturalinterventions, documentaries and public sculptures. I have also worked on a number ofcommissions and collaborative exchanges with a variety of different organisations andinstitutions such as: Barlinnie Prison, The National Museum of Scotland, Glasgow Galleryof Modern Art, RMJ M architects, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, the Scottish refugee Counciland the Miners Welfare, Halfway


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5.0 James McLardy - CV

JAMES MCLARDY502 Bilsland Drive, Glasgow G20 9JL

t: 0 141 946 0653

m: 07968 067 129

e: [email protected]

BORN 1975, ChesterfieldLIVES AND W ORKS: Glasgow

EDUCATION1996-1999 Fine Art, BA (Hons) Glasgow School of Art

1994 -1996 Architecture, Glasgow School of Architecture

SOLO EXHIBITIONS2009 Upcoming, Washington Garcia, Glasgow

2008 Part Lost Objects, Project Room, Glasgow

2006 Ivory Stages, Glasgow Sculpture Studios Gallery

GROUP EXHIBITIONS2008 The Faade Within The Embassy Gallery, Edinburgh

Die Die -Transmission, Glasgow

2007 Secure in flames -Intermedia gallery, Glasgow

ES- (w Katrin Plavcak, Christian Schwarzwald and Lucy Skaer) Catalyst Arts, Belfast

2006 News From Nowhere- Radius, Glasgow

Solo Show -Transmission members show, Glasgow

Art Futures -Glasgow Art Fair

Film Screening, Miners Welfare, Halfway

2005 Re-Escape(w Transmission Gallery) - Hamburg, Germany

Leviathan - (wLorna Macintyre, Neil Bickerton) 90 Leather Lane, London

Bow and Drill - (Project)Project Space, Tramway, Glasgow

Film screening, NMS, Edinburgh

The Beginning of an Endless Desire -(w Camilla Low) Glasgow Art Fair

2004 Last Chance To Turn Around -(w Calum Stirling, Marcus Mitchell), Glasgow

Forever green -Paisley Museum

2001 Sometime Instant- Transmission Gallery, Glasgow

2000 Radio Tuesday- KIASMA, Helsinki, Finland

Louder than love -De Zeyp Cultural Centre, Brussels

World Tune Project- Helsinki, Finland


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PROJECTS2008 Public Art Commission, (w RMJM architects), Ruchill Park, Glasgow

2008 Twinning, community project in Calendar Park, Falkirk2007 Five Schools Project, Glasgow

2007 Public art commission, (w Jenny Crowe projects) New Victoria Gardens, Glasgow

2007 Functionsuite, collaborative sculpture project, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

2006 Rule of Thumb, collaborative drawing and collage project with inmates at Barlinnie

2006 Film Commission, Miners Welfare, Rutherglen

2005 Pavilion, Modular gallery and community project, Cambuslang

2005 Extraordinary Everyday, collaborative project, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

2004 Elbowroom, Community project exhibited in Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow

2004 Architectural symposium, summer school programme, Sculpture studios, Glasgow

2004 Film Commission, Scottish Refugee Council and The National Museum of Scotland

2003 Sanctuary, Four projects involve refugee communities, Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art

2002 Audio project, Morpeth Secondary School and The Whitechapel Gallery, London

AWA RDS and RESIDENCIES2007 Scottish Arts Council, Creative and professional development award

2007 Artist in residence, Scottish Sculpture Workshop

2006 Artist in residence, New Victoria Gardens, Glasgow

2005 Artist in residence, Rutherglen town hall

2005 Scottish Arts Council, Research and development award

2003 Scottish Arts Council, Research and development award2002 Community artist in residence, The Whitechapel Gallery, London

2001 Scottish Arts Council, Research and development award

PUBLICATIONS2008 Drawn from the Wishing Well, DVD published with RMJM architects

2008 Rule of Thumb, Exhibition Catalogue, GOMA

2006 Placed up on the horizon, essays by Niall MacDonald and Ruth Barker

2006 Recast -publication of drawings launched at the CCA, Glasgow

2005 Extraordinary Everyday -Functionsuite Catalogue, Artlink Edinburgh

2002 Sometime Instant -CD Produced Transmission Gallery, Glasgow2000 Radio Tuesday -Cassette produced by Radio Tuesday, Glasgow

RELEVANT EMPLOYMENT2007 Guest lecturer, MFA and BA, Carlisle University

2005 Tutor, Cardonald College, Glasgow

2003 Guest lecturer, The Department of Architecture, Strathclyde University

2003 Gallery Manager, Modern Institute, London

2002 Gallery Manager, Lisson Gallery, London

Midlothian Community Hospital Art Strategy

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