Second year BA Art Practice students at the University of Glamorgan have been commissioned to produce artworks for Cynon Valley’s newest hospital.

Students Alicia Chichester, Jessica Broomfield and Gillian Powell with pieces of the commissioned artwork. 18 students opted to pitch for the commission within their professional studies live project module, a part of their degree. They worked to a specific brief given to them by Cwm Taf Health Board to produce the artworks, which were a combination of paintings, drawings, photographs, prints, computer generated images and textiles.

Keith Powell from Cwm Taf Health Board said: “We commissioned students to produce artworks for waiting areas and ward day rooms for the adult and elderly patients who will be staying in Ysbyty Cwm Cynon. We are extremely pleased with the students’ efforts and the range of the work produced. We hope that patients and staff will enjoy these artworks based on the theme bringing the outside in.”

Participating student Gill Powell, whose work was selected by staff at the hospital said: “I really enjoyed the hospital project and the chance to work on a live project outside of the University. It gave me an invaluable insight into how to do commissioned art work for public spaces; the planning, preparation and presentation of work. The staff and everyone at Cynon Valley hospital made me feel very welcome and appreciative of the work I had done and I hope they enjoy the chosen pieces for years to come.”

Artist and University of Glamorgan lecturer Heather Parnell said: “this has been a great experience for the students, it gives a taster of how professional artists can use their art skills to enhance public spaces and the professional skills needed to present and complete artworks to a brief. This is one of six art projects at Ysbwty Cwm Cynon, it’s been a fantastic opportunity for students to participate.”