Splott artist’s works unveiled at new Cloughmore Surgery

The designs were commissioned by the surgerys developers Apollo, who wanted the artist to create the pieces to brighten up and add interest to interior windows in the patient waiting areas. The visuals were initially painted by Ruth McLees in watercolours, photographed and then set to vinyl which was then applied to the windows. The results provide semi-transparent glimpses of Splott past and present, from the iconic Victorian steelworks to wind-whipped washing drying on the line.

“It was a great challenge,” explains artist Ruth McLees. “The designs were inspired by the industrial heritage of the area, primarily the local steelworks, which has been in operation since the 1890s.” Apollo worked closely with arts coordinator EMP Projects to ensure the works were relevant to the local community.

“Patients’ reaction to Ruth’s artwork has been great. Visitors who are not even patients have come into the surgery just to see the images installed,” says Rob James, Apollo’s operations director. “Art is a vital element in all our medical property developments because we believe it helps to lift people’s spirits and create a healing environment. We’re delighted with what Ruth has produced and hope these fantastic and vibrant works will now be enjoyed by patients and staff for many years to come.”

Apollo completed the new Cloughmore Surgery at 19 South Park Road last August for Dr David Cocks and Partners. The 1,100 sq m medical centre, which includes a pharmacy, supports 8,000 patients in the area.