b&hArts is delighted to invite proposals from artists for a new commission to create two artworks exploring themes of organ donation, transplantation, generosity, hope and the gift of life.
We are seeking an artist or artists to develop and deliver two artworks, one to be installed at Royal Brompton Hospital and one at Harefield Hospital.
We welcome proposals for either:
*Sculptural works – outdoor
*Wall-based artworks – indoor or outdoor
*Mixed-media approaches suitable for healthcare environments
This commission provides an opportunity to create thoughtful, inspiring artworks that recognise the profound impact of organ donation on recipients, donor families, healthcare professionals and the wider community. We are interested in proposals that reflect themes such as connection, renewal, resilience, gratitude, life, legacy and care.
The artworks should contribute positively to the hospital environment, creating moments for reflection, conversation and connection for patients, visitors, and staff.
rb&hArts is committed to co-creation and meaningful engagement. We are looking for an artist who will work collaboratively with hospital staff, patients, transplant recipients, donor families and other stakeholders to help inform and shape the final artworks.
Commission Specification
This commission comprises:
*One artwork for Royal Brompton Hospital
*One artwork for Harefield Hospital
At this stage, the final locations have not been confirmed. Artists should therefore demonstrate an ability to develop proposals that can respond flexibly to the selected sites.
We are open to a wide range of artistic approaches and encourage proposals that thoughtfully engage with the themes of organ donation and transplantation while remaining appropriate for healthcare settings.
Engagement and Co-Creation
We want the commissioned artist to develop an understanding of the experiences and perspectives of people connected to organ donation and transplantation.
The selected artist will be expected to engage with stakeholders, which may include:
*Patients and transplant recipients
*Donor families
*Clinical and support staff
*Volunteers and visitors
rb&hArts will support the artist in arranging meetings, workshops, interviews or other consultation activities as appropriate.
We are particularly interested in artists who can demonstrate experience of participatory practice and co-creation, ensuring that the final artworks reflect the voices and experiences of those connected to the project.
Budget
The total commission budget for the whole project is £9,000 (inclusive of VAT) and must include:
*Artist research and development
*Artist time for consultation and engagement activities
*Design development
*Fabrication and production costs
*Installation costs
*Travel and associated expenses
The allocation of costs is at the discretion of the artist and can be discussed further with rb&hArts following selection.
Key Dates
Deadline for Applications: Sunday 27th September 2026, midnight
Shortlisting: Week commencing 28th September 2026
Interviews: w/c 5th October 2026
Consultation and Engagement Period: November – December 2026
First Design Stakeholder Meeting: December2026
Final Design Stakeholder Meeting: February 2027
Artwork Fabrication and Manufacture: February – March 2027
Artwork Install – April 2027
Please note these dates are provisional and may be adjusted in consultation with the selected artist.
