Something I care about

A new photographic exhibition by Paul Medley at The John Radcliffe Hospital
7 October 2010 to 3 January 2011, The Link Gallery, John Radcliffe Hospital

Something I care about is a new exhibition by Oxford photographer Paul Medley in The John Radcliffe Hospital, on display until the end of the year. It shows photographs of thirty people – friends, or friends of friends of the photographer - portrayed with a special object, something they really care about. The artist Madi holds a silver glass that belonged to her much loved grandmother in India, Barry unfolds a big crocheted blanket made by his great uncle while stationed in India, and Gwyneth has chosen a little enamel box with the words 'Contentment is a kingdom' on the lid. Each one of those portraits tells a story.

“The idea for this series began with a white stool in a white studio,” explains Paul Medley. “When I started the first portrait in such a neutral environment I had the feeling something personal was missing. I asked my subjects to bring one very personal item, ‘something they care about.’” This was the beginning of a very special portrait series.

“This exhibition is perfect for the Link Gallery as it has appeal to a wide audience,” says Ruth Charity, Arts Coordinator, Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust. “The aim of this space is to attract visitors to contemporary art and provide a distraction from the stress that patients and visitors might feel when coming into the hospital. I hope everyone will be able to find something of interest in the exhibition and it will provide a talking point for staff, patients and visitors.”

The Link Gallery – a 60 metre corridor full of light – is located between Car Park 1 and the main hospital building, so the images need to appeal to those who may not be regular visitors to art galleries. The corridor is used by staff going to their shifts, by visitors who are supporting friends and family members, and by patients hurrying to their appointments.

The exhibition programme has been developed to show the stories behind the art to reveal the processes by which artists create work and to encourage the viewer to explore more of Oxford’s exciting contemporary art scene.

The exhibition is supported by  Oxford City Council.