New virtual art gallery launched in memory of local hospice patient

A new virtual gallery has opened to guide visitors through meditations with works of art and bring the qualities of art galleries to people at home.

Look at Paintings is a beginner’s guide to spending time with paintings. The site takes people into a virtual gallery with six rooms, where works of art are grouped by themes including architecture, portraiture, nature and everyday life. For each painting, there is an audio guide to listen to, which tells the real and imagined stories of the paintings to help create feelings of connection, noticing, reflection and relaxation. 

The virtual art gallery is dedicated to Lawrie Perrins (pictured with wife, Wendy), a writer and photographer who was cared for by St Ann’s Hospice at the end of his life and whose love of art inspired and helped to imagine the site.

His wife, Wendy Teall, said:

St Ann’s Hospice not only cared for Lawrie just prior to his passing, but has also played an important role in supporting me through the devastation and shock of losing him. Counselling, complementary therapies and art psychotherapy are all aspects of care that have been offered to me by the hospice, and that have strengthened me sufficiently to allow me to undertake the launch of this very special project that represents Lawrie and me.” 

When Look at Paintings was imagined by Lawrie and Wendy, their idea was to help connect people who were isolated at home for whatever reason, or somewhere like a hospice, so that they could still ‘visit’ an art gallery and get the benefits of slowing down and spending time with art. This has taken on a new meaning in lockdown, as more people search for creative ways to look after their wellbeing.  

St Ann’s provides holistic support for both patients and their families to look after their emotional, social, spiritual and physical wellbeing. Their support is tailored to each individual’s needs and interests, but can include counselling, relaxation groups and creative therapies. 

Hazel Wilcock, Senior Counsellor at St Ann’s Hospice, said:

Lots of people find that art and creativity has a positive impact on their mental health. For some people, it can help them unwind and focus their mind on something positive and calming for others it’s a helpful way to process and explore difficult emotions without needing to talk.  

“Whatever the reason, I would actively encourage us all to look after ourselves by creating the time and space to do something creative and which gives us joy.”