An award-winning photography exhibition designed to capture the “essence and soul” of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield has beenofficially hailed as a resounding success—bringing warmth, color, and comfort to patients and visitors at Good Hope Hospital.
What began as a community competition has evolved into a living art gallery within the hospital’s Treatment Centre. The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition, spearheaded by the Town Council and Mayor Cllr Cindy Yip, now features 22 stunning photographic entries from local residents, with the dual purpose of showcasing local talent and improving the wellbeing of those receiving medical care.
From competition to community healing
The initiative launched in 2024 when photography enthusiasts were invited to submit images that best represented the spirit of Sutton Coldfield. After receiving a high volume of high-quality entries, the Town Council sought a way to share the work beyond a traditional gallery setting.
Simultaneously, Good Hope Hospital was actively looking to “brighten up the walls” of its Treatment Centre to bring comfort and joy to patients, visitors, and staff. A partnership was formed, and the corridor—one of the busiest thoroughfares in the hospital—was transformed into a public gallery.
Simon Jarvis, Hospital Executive Director at Good Hope Hospital, commented:
“The corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building is well-used by patients, staff and visitors. The stunning photography on display really brightens up this busy thoroughfare and further strengthens the strong ties between our hospital and the local community.”
New entries for 2025 expand the collection
Following the success of the initial 13 entries displayed in 2024, a further nine images from the 2025 competition have now been installed.
Featured residents and contributors include: Alison Matthews, Dave Taylor, Kathryn Sawbridge, Keith Wright, Harriet Birdsell, Neil Dance and Sutton Park Grange Care Home.
Tackling social isolation: The story behind ‘Where’s mine?’
One of the standout additions to the 2025 exhibition is Dave Taylor’s image, ‘Where’s mine?’. Taken at Coffee#1 in Sutton Coldfield, the photograph depicts Dave’s friend Colin enjoying a drink and a snack with his Australian Shepherd, Jake.
Dave’s motivation for entering the competition was deeply personal. Having visited the hospital previously, he and his family saw firsthand how the 2024 exhibition lifted spirits.
“We saw the images from the 2024 competition and thought they really brightened the treatment centre up and gave us something nice to focus on during our visits there,” Dave explained.
“I wanted to enter the 2025 competition in the hope that this new collection continues to bring enjoyment to other people attending Good Hope Hospital.”
His image intentionally highlights the importance of social spaces in Sutton Coldfield and their role in tackling social isolation—a theme that resonates strongly with the “Soul of Sutton” brief.
‘Seasons of Friendship’ brings care home residents into focus
Sutton Park Grange Care Home submitted ‘Seasons of Friendship at Sutton Park Grange Care Home’, a photograph that the team says “truly captures the spirit of our residents.”
“It’s a privilege to have our photograph included in this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” a spokesperson said.
“We hope it brightens someone’s day in the wider community of Sutton Coldfield.”
Alison Matthews: Finding beauty in Sutton Park
Amateur photographer Alison Matthews has two pieces featured in the exhibition: ‘Beautiful Blues’and ‘Proud Park Swan’. A regular walker in Sutton Park, Alison uses photography as a tool for both mental and physical health.
“I get real pleasure in sharing my photography and I am thrilled to be part of this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” said Alison.
“I am just a happy amateur who loves finding beauty in and around Sutton Coldfield, particularly in Sutton Park. Regular walks with my camera are what keeps me healthy, in mind as well as body! This is a great opportunity to share a little of that with patients and staff.”
Personal achievement and community pride
Keith Wright, creator of ‘Maypole Installation, Holly Knoll, Sutton Park, May 2025’, spoke about what it means to be selected for a public exhibition.
“Participating in an exhibition, after being selected in a competition, confirms a personal achievement and instils a sense of pride. Producing photographic images to a set task or theme is an enjoyable challenge for any photographer.
“Many of us, friends or family (or someone who knows us), will pass through the hospital. The printed photograph gives us time to look, experience, enjoy and discuss.”
A unique story to yell
Cllr Cindy Yip, Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, served as judge for the 2025 competition and praised the depth of talent on display.
“It was a privilege to view the entries and select winners for the 2025 Soul of Sutton competition, each one with a unique story to tell about our Royal Town.
“This is a great space to showcase the talent of local residents. Congratulations again to all the featured artists.”
Why this matters: The power of art in healthcare
The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition is a prime example of the therapeutic power of visual art in healthcare environments. By replacing blank clinical walls with scenes of local nature, community life, and cherished pets, Good Hope Hospital has created a “positive distraction” for those undergoing treatment.
Residents have reported that the images provide comfort and a sense of familiarity during what can be a stressful hospital visit.
About the ‘Soul of Sutton’ Initiative
The ‘Soul of Sutton’ competition is an annual event run by Sutton Coldfield Town Council. It invites residents to submit photographic works that celebrate the people, places, and spirit of the Royal Town. Winning entries are displayed publicly to foster community pride and cultural engagement.
Visiting the Exhibition
The exhibition is located in the corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building at Good Hope Hospital. It is freely accessible to patients, visitors, and staff during hospital opening hours.
Get hands-on! Discover the joy of drawing and dive into painting with oil pastels, watercolours, and acrylics. Whether you’re a total beginner or a budding artist, there’s something here for everyone.
Learn from the best! Enjoy expert art tuition designed to help you grow and shine creatively.
Make connections! Meet like-minded people who share your passion for art in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Feel at home: Free refreshments in a cosy, inspiring space.
Discounted starter kits available: Get your essentials at a great price, and all other materials and tools for class are supplied.
End with a flourish: Showcase your creations at a celebratory exhibition during the final week.
Convenient and accessible: Free parking, including disabled spaces, and sloped access for ease.
Reserve your spot or find out more by calling 0330 122 6145.
Your creative journey begins: Week starting 28th April.
Three classes available: Monday evenings, Thursday mornings, or afternoons.
Location: Sutton Coldfield Cricket and Hockey Club, Rectory Park, Rectory Road, Sutton Coldfield B75 7RS.
Sutton Coldfield Life 