To celebrate the best of our Royal Town, Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council photography enthusiasts to enter a ‘Soul of Sutton’ photography competition. Residents were invited to submit their favourite images that captured the very essence and ‘Soul’ of Sutton Coldfield. Cllr John Perks, Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield selected the winning entries.
Due to the variety of high-quality entries received, the Town Council wanted to share these images more widely with the community. Many of the entries showcased themes of health and wellbeing and highlighted the positive effects that nature, social interaction and creativity can have on people’s lives. This provided the perfect opportunity to collaborate with Good Hope Hospital who were looking to brighten up the walls of their Treatment Centre to bring comfort and joy to patients, visitors and staff.
There is also growing evidence to suggest that art can influence the health and wellbeing of patients and staff in health care settings by aiding emotional recovery, whilst relieving anxiety and decreasing the perception of pain.
Some of the many positive responses from residents included:
Martin Tierney, creator of the ‘Station Steps’ image said: “I am truly delighted that my photograph is part of the exhibition and is now on display at the Treatment Centre in Good Hope Hospital. As a photographer, this opportunity means so much to me. It’s a way to express my deep pride in Sutton Coldfield, the town I’ve called home for the past 40 years. I hope this resonates with the community, as I share these feelings with all of you.”
Catherine A. D’Costa, creator or ‘RESPECT’ commented, “‘This photo was taken on a sunny afternoon, not with a fancy camera but with my mobile phone. Having this photo displayed here in Good Hope Hospital Treatment Centre will, hopefully, help those waiting for their treatment to think about the hundred of other locations throughout Sutton Coldfield, and in doing so, will take their minds away from their treatment for just a few moments.”
Pat Fereday creator of ‘The Old Man of The Woods’ and ‘Exmoor Pony Bathing’ said “I think it is a lovely idea to share our thoughts on what we think of as the Soul of Sutton, and the Treatment Centre is a perfect place in which to display them. I am honoured that my photos have been included.”
Martin Whitehead creator of ‘Exmoor Pony bathing in Little Bracebridge’ commented, “I feel honoured that my photo has been chosen for display and hope that it will be enjoyed by all who visit, and especially by those awaiting treatment.”
Owen Griffiths creator of ‘Unexpected Outburst of Snow’ said, “I feel very lucky to be able to show one of my photos at the treatment centre in Good Hope Hospital. I hope everyone gets as much pleasure seeing it as I do taking pictures in and around Sutton park.”
Tracey Babington creator of ‘Nighttime at St Micheal’s Church’ said, “I always loved photography. My father was train spotter and he takes lots photos of them on an old school canon av1 camera. I am very happy that my photo of St Michael’s church in boldmere Sutton Coldfield with Christmas decorations hanging from trees is on display. This photo is very special to me. It was taken last year when we attended the Christmas memorial service that was held by Hazel & Sons Funeral Directors, for my mother who passed away. I took this photo just before heading in.”
David Shiner creator of Exmoor Ponies in Sutton Park said, “It’s fantastic to see my photo being displayed at the Treatment Centre, and I really hope that it can give some pleasure to people visiting the building.”
The Mayor of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Cllr John Perks said, “It is an honour to help launch the ‘Soul’ of Sutton exhibition and I’m pleased it will be housed at Good Hope Hospital. It is fantastic to witness the civic pride which resonates with the residents of Sutton Coldfield and each image has captured life in our town so wonderfully. I would like to extend a huge congratulations to all the featured artists.”
Simon Jarvis, Hospital Executive Director said, “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and pleased to host this fantastic photography exhibition.
“It showcases the talent of local residents and features beautiful images which really do capture what makes Sutton unique and a fantastic place to live and work.
“As well as being able to offer the Town Council a light and bright space within the heart of the Sutton community, we know that art is therapeutic for our patients and visitors, contributing to an overall enhanced patient experience.”
Thirteen entries will be on display from the 14 November 2024 in the Good Hope Hospital Treatment Centre, each one offering a unique perspective on what makes Sutton Coldfield such a special place to live, work and visit. Residents featured are Austen Evans, Adrian Whittle, Catherine A. D’Costa, David Shiner, Judith Sawbridge, Owen Griffiths, Martin Tierney, Martin Whitehead, Pat Fereday and Tracey Babington.