Ocean is one of the sponsors of Gratitude, a new show developed by the public art producer Wild in Art to thank NHS staff and all key workers for their ongoing courage and dedication during the pandemic.
Gratitude is an installation of 51 uniquely-designed human form sculptures by artists from the UK’s nations and regions. Each sculpture is curated in partnership with creative ambassador Dame Zandra Rhodes.
The colourful statues reflect the stories and service of frontline workers in what has been an unprecedented year.
As part of our support, Ocean is sponsoring Rise by the Birmingham-based artist and tattooist Megan Heather Evans. Using traditional tattoo imagery, Rise features a sacred heart, a phoenix with rainbow wings rising from the ashes and a shining star representing a beacon of hope.
Enclosed by mirrors on two sides, Gratitude creates infinite reflections of the artworks, highlighting the endless care and dedication from NHS carers and key workers across the country. The mirrors ensure that visitors become part of the show, creating an immersive experience and reflecting the contributions of the entire population.
There is also an audio element to the work. Entertainers and actors, including KT Tunstall, Christopher Eccleston and Adil Ray, have read stories and poems submitted by the public to help bring the presentation to life.
Created by the team behind Manchester’s award-winning Bee in the City art trail, Gratitude aims to connect people and communities, artists and businesses, NHS staff and all key workers, inviting people to gather together to reflect and show their appreciation.
The exhibition opened in Birmingham on August 20 supported by a campaign on selected Ocean screens including the Birmingham Media Wall, before embarking on a free to visit tour across the UK which also visits Manchester, Edinburgh and then London from October 1.
In the autumn, the sculptures will be auctioned with proceeds donated to NHS Charities Together which will support the NHS, including its hospitals, ambulance services, community and mental healthcare providers and vital partnerships.
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