Magical mural at Frimley Park Hospital

Karen Neville

An ocean scene greets young Frimley patients thanks to a collaboration with students from UCA Farnham

Bright colourful sea creatures in hospital scrubs will greet young patients at Frimley Park Hospital helping to put smiles on faces at what can be a scary time. 

Graphic Design students from the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Farnham were briefed by the Frimley Health Charity to create a welcoming and engaging visual with an ‘under the sea’ theme for the hospital’s paediatric Emergency Department waiting area. 

The students who best answered the brief were Lauren Baker and Gemma Radley-Martin who then worked together on a cohesive design for the space. 

“I took inspiration from the Great Barrier Reef and kids’ movies like Finding Nemo to help build the scene,” said Gemma. “I also dressed up some of the sea animals in different coloured hospital scrubs with name badges to describe what type of medical staff they were. I feel proud that I’ve used my skills for a purpose that will positively impact a lot of people.” 

Fellow winner Lauren added: “The ocean is inherently captivating and full of life, which can inspire wonder and calm – qualities that are especially valuable in a space for children. From my passion and love for painting seascapes with its flowing colours, underwater creatures and whimsical details, I created a fun, immersive and stimulating mural. This experience has significantly enhanced my ability to work professionally.” 

Emma Carr, Arts and Creative Health Manager at the charity, who helped set the brief, said: “We wanted some unique artwork that would help distract and create a calm environment for our young patients. We were keen to reach out to the local community and by connecting with UCA were able to request something bespoke for the space. It allowed us to mentor students on a real-life project – it was perfect. 

“The quality of student work was outstanding, and they showed such resilience and determination when the project brief changed. The doctors, nurses, and clinical teams love the work and already see delight in the patients.” 

The installation of the student artwork is now complete, including some additional artwork by MA Graphic Design student, Jing Dai, who created colourful panels to brighten up the hospital’s new stroke therapy garden. 

David Shaw, Programme Director of Graphic Design at UCA, said: “Working with our local NHS hospital was a brilliant opportunity for our students to solve a real problem with design. Students had to think harder about the practical implications of their work and the hospital users. This involved research visits to the hospital to observe the environment and talk to people. 

“Working with real clients while studying gives students invaluable experience of the unexpected twists and turns of a live industry project and can bolster student portfolios – invaluable to working in the creative industries.” 

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