Leeds print company Imageco have printed and helped install a touching tribute for organ donation patients at Bradford Royal Infirmary. The project was recently completed and is now brightening up the NHS hospital’s entrance.
The Sculpture, titled A Tree of Yorkshire Birds, was inspired by a poem written by Karen van de Bospoort. This life-size ‘tree of life’ is 8 metres tall and fills a wall three floors high in the modern new entrance atrium at the NHS Hospital in Bradford – an extremely impressive artwork to greet all healthcare staff, patients and visitors.
The hospital wanted this artwork to be an uplifting memorial to organ donors. The sculpture captures the growth of new buds and fresh leaves which represent the beginning of new life and a fresh start.
Imageco made the main tree using aged copper, as it depicts an autumn feel. The birds in the tree have been laser cut as one piece, wing patterns and other detailing on the birds show as brushed aluminium through the aged copper finish. This allows the birds to shimmer in various lights throughout the day. Birds flying around the tree have a verdigris finish and are fitted with spacers to give extra depth. Imageco added lettering that arcs around the top of the tree, ‘the gift of life’ is also fitted with spacers for striking effect. A circular information plaque, created in aged copper and brushed aluminium, provides details of this magnificent organ donation public art.
The project was propelled into reality by Hospital Art Studio, who came up with the unique design. Imageco and Online Print Installations then brought the idea to life!
“The Trust wanted to do something to recognise the sacrifice and importance of donors and their families, as well as celebrate the new life breathed into recipients and I am delighted that the tree is now in place as it is a very fitting and lasting memorial.” Dr Andy Baker - Clinical Lead for Organ Donation and Consultant Anaesthetist,
'It was an honour to be brought back from furlough to be able to complete this touching, meaningful piece of work. To be able to bring some recognition to the many that have given the ultimate gift in their final days is one of my proudest moments at Imageco.
Thank you for Hospital Art Studio, Bradford Royal Infirmary and NHS Southampton for the opportunity to represent organ donors with such a stunning piece or art.” - David Shackleton- Imageco’s Key Account Handler
