MORE than 200 pieces of art made by patients at a Dorset hospice charity have been displayed at the Lighthouse in Poole.

The artworks have been made by patients with life-limiting illnesses at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s hubs across Poole and east Dorset.

Creative Art is one of the services the charity provides to support patients’ wellbeing and mental health.

The art exhibition was officially opened by celebrated artist Mike Jeffries and his wife Pam Jeffries, both hospice patrons.

Hospice Creative Artists Rachel and Karen encourage patients to take part in art activities such as drawing, painting, sculptures and even poetry.

Rachel and Karen said: “We see incredible artwork produced, but our main agenda is to support patients, giving them a sense of purpose, choice or control at a time when they may feel they have lost these.

“For some patients, their day at the hospice is their only day away from home. They find companionship and a distraction from their conditions, pain and other things going on in their lives.”

Artist Mike Jeffries said: “I am really pleased to be able to support the charity and to see very good, interesting and original artworks. To be able to talk to creative artists, patients and staff has been fantastic.”

One patient, Rob, who had two pieces of his art displayed at the exhibition, was diagnosed with a life-limiting illness in 2022 and now experiences Macular Degeneration and is gradually losing his eyesight.

One of his artworks on display was produced when he still had full sight. The second has been made with his much-impaired vision and is a duplicate of the original version.

He said: “The support that I’ve received from the clinical team and the creative artists has been absolutely brilliant. My artwork is a welcome outlet and helps to support my well-being at this difficult time in my life.”

Clare Gallie, chief executive at Lewis-Manning, added: “We are absolutely thrilled and delighted that our patients, with the support and help of our dedicated creative artists, have displayed over 200 amazing pieces of art at the Lighthouse.”