Learning Disability Today
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Artwork from Strathmartine Hospital deposited with Dundee University Archives

Strathmartine Hospital Artwork created by people with learning disabilities that was rescued from the former Strathmartine Hospital has now been deposited with Dundee University Archives, as part of the Heritage Lottery-funded Strathmartine Hospital Histories project.

Six pieces of artwork that hung in the dining room at Strathmartine Hospital were rescued by contractors during demolition works. The pieces, three of which measure 4’ x 8’ and the others 2’x 8’, were created by residents of the hospital and feature views from the hospital and their lives at that time.

Local historian Karen McAulay, who is also the Strathmartine Hospital Histories project manager, had been hoping to save the artwork for some time. Following liaison with the owners, she secured the paintings before they were destroyed.

The Strathmartine Hospital Histories project, which is led by Thera Trust, is recording the oral histories of people who lived and worked at the hospital. These histories, along with photographs, artwork, written stories and a short documentary film, will be available to view in Dundee University Archives and some of the material will feature in an exhibition at Discovery Point in August.

Dundee University Archives does not usually take artwork but as partners in the Strathmartine Hospital Histories project they agreed on this occasion.

If anyone, particularly former residents want to get involved and volunteer to be interviewed or find out more information, contact Karen McAulay on 07590 965528, email [email protected] or visit the website www.thera.co.uk/strathmartine.

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LDT Editor

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