The final exhibition for the Warneford 200 commemorative programme has opened at Abingdon County Hall Museum in Abingdon, with an opportunity to attend a free creative workshop.
Presented by Oxford Health Charity, curated by the History of Science Museum, University of Oxford, and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the exhibition explores how mental health care has evolved in Oxfordshire over two centuries, shaped by the people who lived, worked and received treatment at the Warneford Hospital. It is part of a series of exhibitions that have been touring Oxfordshire throughout the year.
The exhibition is free to enter and runs until 22 December.
As with previous exhibitions, visitors can listen to first-hand accounts from people who have worked or stayed at the Warneford, or used its services, as well as look at photos and drawings of the hospital from the past.
Artefacts relating to the treatment and care of service users over the past 200 years, such as admission records and case books, will also be on display, giving visitors the opportunity to learn how the hospital has grown and developed to become one of the leading research centres into mental health in the country.
Free creative workshop – open to all. No experience necessary
Ever since the hospital’s opening in 1826, service users have been encouraged to take part in creative activities.
In recognising the importance of therapeutic activities in mental health wellbeing and recovery, a free artist-led creative workshop will take place at the museum on 14 November:
Date: Saturday 14 November
Time: 11am to 2pm
Venue: Kempster Room (Abingdon Museum Basement)
Those taking part will have the chance to see the exhibition, explore archival material, and create artwork based on their response to the materials and stories.
To find out more and book a place, please visit: https://creativecollagewarneford200.eventbrite.com
No artistic experience is needed. The workshop is open to everyone, and children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
Although the workshop is a 3-hour session, participants don’t have to stay for the full 3 hours and can leave when they feel they’ve finished their artwork.
