Art work by renowned international artists installed at St Thomas' Hospital

The successful installation of two large-scale artworks for patients, staff and visitors to St Thomas’ Hospital was celebrated at a launch event on Thursday 19 January.

The artwork, Aquatic Flora I and Aquatic Flora II, was created by internationally renowned artists, Hsiao-Chi Tsai and Kimiya Yoshikawa, and features in the newly built East Wing atria at St Thomas’ Hospital. Funding for the artwork came directly from Guy’s and St Thomas Charity, and no NHS funds were spent on the project.

Typical of Tsai and Yoshikawa’s work, both sculptures have abstract shapes, patterns and textures, and celebrate the use of colour. The sculptures themselves are made from coloured powder coated aluminium, polycarbonate film and supported by a central stainless steel woven cable to assist in the form and shape.

Working in a hospital environment brought some new challenges to the artists, as to ensure patient safety the artwork had to comply with strict infection control and fire safety regulations. Consequently, the artists worked closely with the project management team at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, and other construction partners, to identify the ideal construction and rigging materials to meet the artistic and technical brief. 

Tsai and Yoshikawa said: “We are delighted to have our first large-scale permanent commission sited at St Thomas’ Hospital. It is made all the more special due to the fact that Hsiao-Chi was pregnant throughout the design and build of the artwork and our daughter, Nara, was born at St Thomas’.  This is her artwork, too. The arts programme at Guy’s and St Thomas’ is a reflection of the Trust’s commitment to providing the best care for patients – from the medical support they receive to ensuring that the environment where they stay also cares for them. We are very pleased to be a part of this.”

Liz O’Sullivan, Arts Manager for Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust said: “This project represents the coming together of the best in creativity, sensitivity and workmanship. Aquatic Flora I and II enhance a major capital scheme and demonstrate that we provide the best for our patients, staff and visitors through high-quality art commissioning. This all becomes possible when we work in partnership with Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, our construction partners and our capital development team to add value through art, design and technology.”