I’ve just had some good news. A project I worked on at St. Giles Hospice in Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield has just been given the West Midlands Arts Health and Well Being Award. As writer, I was lead artist on the project, working alongside photographer-artist Dominic Pote, artist Peter Tinkler. documentary photographer Ming de Nasty, and co-ordinators Glen Buglass and Rachel Parker. Working with and alongside patients and staff we used poetry and images to explore intimate thoughts about living and dying, and the result was a beautifully produced book called “Being Here”. It was a very moving and rewarding project to work on, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.
Here’s just one of the group poems from the book:
A Window in my World
Peaceful and calm,
Caring, friendly,
Away from the familiar four walls.
Being here opens a window
In my world,
Taking time out,
Watching and reflecting.
The tranquillity quietens the soul.
It’s a paradox,
An overwhelming experience,
So glad I came.
In my last moments,
When I give my last gasp,
I hope I am here.