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The ‘Vivid Art Exhibition’ was a recent showcase of our Chelsea Pensioners' incredible artistic skills. Organised by our Artist in Residence Grace Holliday alongside our Activities team, the exhibition featured an array of captivating works. From paintings, sketches and photography – Vivid Art highlighted the breadth of artistic talent amongst our Chelsea Pensioners. 

Art is a fantastic way to express creative capabilities, utilise imagination and experiment with different artistic materials aligning with the Royal Hospital’s commitment to support active ageing. For some of the Chelsea Pensioners, the range of activities on offer allows them to rediscover previous interests as well as for some to try out something completely new. 

David Hinds whose work was featured in the exhibition said he had never considered art before joining the Royal Hospital. Now, David enjoys spending his time painting and practising his photography skills. He shared with us how the art programme at the Royal Hospital has helped him:

Art to me is so therapeutic. It helps me relax which in turn helps me deal with my PTSD and comorbid depression. To me art is a healer!

David contributed some wonderful work to the exhibition, inspired by nature especially. He has recently been experimenting with different materials including foil which featured in some of his pieces focusing on flowers. 

Chelsea Pensioner Helen Lloyd also featured some of her artwork at the exhibition. Having joined the Royal Hospital a year ago, Helen said she has enjoyed trying out a new hobby:

I'm not an artist! I am a complete beginner but I get such joy out of the art activities here. Grace is a wonderful teacher and I'm enjoying the learning process behind it all. I'm still learning a lot, but it is great to try something new. 

The Royal Hospital offers a diverse range of creative activities including pottery, painting, woodwork and more. The Vivid Art Exhibition was a huge success; it allowed other members of the Royal Hospital community to admire some of the work and engage with the art programme on offer, by learning how it benefits the Chelsea Pensioners and participating in creative conversations. 

Check out some of the masterpieces that were on display below...