Art on dialysis has been a burgeoning idea within the renal community. Successful programs have been launched in various units across the country and a feasibility study is underway in Belfast. Feedback from units running programs has shown that creative activities can distract from treatment and offer stimulation during dialysis and a way for patients to express themselves and find a voice. Artwork displayed around the unit can provide a sense of community and pride.
Although the original UK Kidney Week 2020 was cancelled due to Covid-19 we are delighted to hear that it has now been reimagined as a virtual conference planned for the 5th to 15th October 2020.
In previous years there has been a patient art exhibition. This has become a popular part of conference proceedings and has been an opportunity for patients to share their work and how experiences with the renal professional community, and this year is no different. With the stress and uncertainty of the last few months it is more important than ever to be able to come together as a renal community to share experiences and celebrate achievements. With this in mind, the organisers of UK Kidney Week are looking for people to contribute creative works for a virtual art exhibition to showcase the amazing and diverse work that renal patients have been creating.
There is no limit to what can be included it could be drawings, paintings, photography, poetry or stories. You can submit your entries either by photo or by scanning in a copy and please also include some information about how art makes you feel (either by in a written statement or a short video).
Submissions should be sent to [email protected] by 11th September 2020.