AGE is no bar to artistic expression and Ipswich artist Jack Ryan is here to prove it. His paintings have added a splash of colour to a ward in Ipswich Hospital.
The 91-year-old has donated some of his bright artworks to Ipswich Hospital’s Ward 7C in the hope that they will bring a little colour and happiness to patients during their stay. The artworks have been added to the patient memory corridor in 7C, which is the Acute Care of the Elderly ward.
The memory corridor aims to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during their stay.
Mr Ryan’s niece Celia said her uncle was proud to donate the artwork and said he often gave art as gifts to his nieces and nephews.
“He is still painting in his new home at the age of 91,” Ms Ryan said. “He prefers painting landscapes and abstracts and loves to play with colour and form. Not only does he paint canvases but he has also been known to repurpose glass bottles to use as decorations.”
Medical officer Dr Danusha DeAlwis said Mr Ryan donated his precious artwork to the memory corridor after it had undergone rehabilitation.
“The ward is a brighter place now with Mr Ryan’s colourful paintings,” Dr DeAlwis said. “They are very welcoming and serve the area well.
“The purpose of the memory corridor is to improve the wellbeing of patients and lift their spirits. Art can be measurably more effective than medication in improving patients’ senses.
“The memory corridor is a step forward in our goal to create a patient-centred environment for older persons who are recovering from acute illness and living away from their loved ones.
“We sincerely thank Mr Ryan for his contribution.”
