THE BETHLEM GALLERY PRESS RELEASE Unescorted #3
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 Unescorted #3 glimpses the lives and unique perspectives of patients at medium-secure psychiatric units from South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. Opening on 5th October at the Bethlem Gallery - on the grounds of the world’s oldest psychiatric hospital - the exhibition showcases creative mediums being used to compliment traditional psychiatric treatments.
Over 20 patients will display work – many of them fresh from their success at this year’s Koestler Arts Awards, where twelve patients from Bethlem Royal Hospital have won awards. Much of the artwork produced by patients follows significant work by the hospital’s art technicians and occupational therapists who help identify and nurture a patient’s hidden creative talents.
Dr Tim McInerny, Consultant Psychiatrist for Forensic Services at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), said "Art is an important part of the therapeutic process of recovery for patients at our medium secure units. Music, writing, drama, and particularly art are all forms by which patients have a chance to share their story with others and in doing so move that bit closer to a safe and successful life in the community. The music concerts and art exhibitions that take place are perhaps a high point in a treatment that is otherwise complex and challenging."
Beth Elliott, Bethlem Gallery Coordinator said: “The freedom of expression that creativity allows, offers a poignant counterpoint to the restrictions of detention.”
Exhibition details:
Opening Event: 5th October, 3 - 6pm
Exhibition continues: 6th October – 4th November
Opening times: Wed, Thurs, Friday, 11am – 6pm
Gallery & Museum open Saturday 8th October11am - 6pm
Address: The Bethlem Gallery, Bethlem Royal Hospital,
Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 3BX
Travel: Nearest British Rail: Eden Park / East Croydon
Contact: Beth Elliott, Gallery Co-ordinator, 020 3228 4835
Email: thebethlemgallery@gmail.com
Website: www.bethlemgallery.com