Creative Collaboration Brings Large Scale Murals to Royal Bournemouth Hospital
Think Signs has recently completed the production and installation of two large scale mural panels at Royal Bournemouth Hospital, supporting a collaborative project between University Hospitals Dorset NHS Trust and Arts University Bournemouth.
The murals have been installed within the hospital’s new BEACH building, which forms part of the Trust’s £500 million transformation programme. Designed to enhance the internal environment, the artworks contribute to a calmer, more welcoming space for patients, visitors, and staff.
From Concept to Installation
The two murals, titled Emerging Kingfisher and Dorset Diorama, were created by Arts University Bournemouth interior architecture and design students Emily Bishop, Yulia Klajnscek, Rhea Hackwell, and Olivia Greatrex, under the creative direction of AUB graduate Lenya Hulford Greig.
Think Signs worked closely with the project team to translate the original creative concepts into high quality, durable mural panels suitable for a busy healthcare setting, ensuring the artwork would perform over time while retaining its visual impact.
Artwork Inspired by Place
The Emerging Kingfisher mural takes inspiration from the wildlife around the hospital lake, depicting a kingfisher rising from water against a warm sunset. The kingfisher is often associated with luck, beauty, and grace, making it a meaningful symbol within a hospital environment.
The second mural, Dorset Diorama, focuses on local landscapes and landmarks, helping patients and visitors feel more connected to the surrounding area during their time at the hospital.
The Power of Creative Partnerships
The project highlights the value of creative partnerships between education, healthcare, and industry. Laura Joy, Arts Manager at University Hospitals Dorset NHS Trust, has emphasised how collaborations like this can enrich public spaces while providing emerging artists with the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to their local community.
The murals have also gained wider attention, including coverage by BBC South. You can read the full article here: Art students design murals for new Bournemouth hospital building – BBC News.
Think Signs’ Role
Think Signs is proud to have played a role in bringing these artworks to life. The project demonstrates how signage and environmental graphics can go beyond wayfinding and branding, contributing positively to how people experience a space, particularly in healthcare environments where wellbeing and reassurance are essential.
Looking Ahead
Projects like the Royal Bournemouth Hospital murals underline the growing importance of environmental graphics in shaping human centred spaces. As hospitals, universities, and public buildings continue to evolve, thoughtful visual design plays an increasingly important role in supporting wellbeing, reducing anxiety, and creating a stronger sense of place.
Think Signs looks forward to supporting future projects across healthcare, education, and public environments. By working closely with artists, designers, architects, and estates teams, we aim to continue delivering large format graphics and signage solutions that balance creativity, durability, and long term performance.
Through collaborative partnerships and a commitment to quality, Think Signs will continue to help create spaces that feel welcoming, inspiring, and connected to the communities they serve.
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