A former patient has returned to a Bradford mental health hospital to create a vibrant and hopeful piece of art for its multi-faith space, turning her personal recovery into a source of comfort for others.
Art as a Path to Healing
Heidi Watson-Trant was an inpatient on the female acute service, Blossom Ward, at Cygnet Hospital Bierley between August and November 2024. Following her discharge, she was invited back to design a large mural for the hospital's dedicated multi-faith room. For Heidi, creativity is a cornerstone of her wellbeing.
"Creative expression is a healthy distraction for me," she explained. "It allows me to step away from what’s going on in life and focus on something else. I love colour, the brighter the better. It’s comforting to me and reorders the chaos that can be in my mind."
A Universal Message of Hope
The finished artwork depicts two hands cradling the world, encircled by symbols from various world religions and positive words that reflect shared values across different faiths. Although not religious herself, Heidi wanted the piece to radiate reassurance.
"I like the notion of a divine being holding us all within His hands," Heidi said. "Knowing that someone will always be holding, guiding and supporting us throughout all of life’s toils and grief. I know that belief can be a huge comfort to people."
Giving Back to a Place of Support
The invitation held deep significance for Heidi. During her earlier stay, staff had supported her in painting a mural for the hospital's original multi-faith room, which has since become a music studio.
"When I was invited back to do this one, it was humbling," she admitted. "I felt honoured, proud and a bit more confident in my artistic ability. It’s been so lovely to give something back to the place that previously helped me through my lowest point."
She spoke warmly of the care she received at the hospital, which provides acute and low secure mental health services. "My time at Bierley was so positive. The staff treated me with respect, dignity and support. They helped me get my life back on track after the worst thing to ever happen in my life. I’m unbelievably grateful, so it was a no-brainer to give back when I was asked about the mural."
The new mural now stands in the multi-faith space at Cygnet Hospital Bierley in Bradford, West Yorkshire, intended to inspire reflection, comfort, and connection for all who use it.
