Classroom Theories into Practical Applications: A Working Collaboration with Royal Liverpool Hospital Healing Arts

Abstract

This project initiated a long-term collaboration between the Royal Liverpool Hospital (RLH) and Liverpool School of Art and Design. It is increasingly difficult for our students to gain relevant work experience in curatorial practices and this collaboration has given them an unrivalled opportunity to put their theoretical skills into practice, working both independently and in teams, and to make a significant contribution to their skill sets and CVs.

RLH had a large collection of uncatalogued artworks, previously displayed in the old decommissioned hospital. We arranged for the artworks to be collected into one place where students could work over several weeks in cross-year teams, and employed an experienced curator and archivist to provide support.

The objectives were for the students were:

• To plan curatorial layouts for artworks to be installed in the new hospital, gaining valuable work experience.
• To compile an inventory of artworks, developing skills in accurate documentation
• To critically analyse their curatorial choices within a framework of inclusivity and well-being

The paper discusses how the project has greatly enhanced the graduate employment prospects of the participants and analyses what went well and what we need to change, responding to feedback from students and staff at RLH. It examines the outcomes that have been achieved, including the creation of a catalogue and the installation of collections put together by students in the new hospital. A documentary film of the project has been commissioned and made by the APSS Supporting Student Experience Team.

The extension of this project to four other sites within the Trust is in development for next semester and we have been approached by thirty-four other hospitals in the Northwest. The project is seen as a significant success by RLH, which we will build on to make a major contribution to student experience within APSS.

Classroom Theories into Practical Applications: A Working Collaboration with Royal Liverpool Hospital Healing Arts Powerpoint. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.