Rafael tells the News: ‘The installation has two parts: a large sculpture in the garden called Osiris which incorporates images developed by workshop participants.
‘Osiris, the Egyptian God of resurrection, life and vegetation, accompanies you as you explore Tessa Jowell Health Centre’s garden courtyard.’
The vision of sculptor and mixed-media artist Rafael Klein, Osiris embodies the collaborative nature of the local community. Part human form, part tamarisk tree, the sculpture is populated with miniature scenes that have been inspired by the rich collection of artworks at Dulwich Picture Gallery, and hand-drawn by members of the local community.
Commissioned as part of the creative partnership between Dulwich Picture Gallery and NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, the artwork is accompanied by eighteen smaller sculptures which live above the health centre’s main staircase, presented against a backdrop of landscapes from some of Dulwich Picture Gallery’s best-known paintings. Human figures proceed in front of these landscapes, once again echoing our place in the natural world.
The artwork invites staff, patients and visitors at the health centre to connect with nature and find a space for mindfulness and wellbeing. The paintings in the windows have become semi-transparent, allowing us to see through them to a living garden. Look carefully, and within the sculpture Osiris you will see miniature people, surrounded by leaves, fruit and animals.
Steel Fabrication: Rafael Klein / Jamie Samuels Graphics: Hexio / BAF Graphics
Installation: Joss Smith
Supported by NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, Prudence Trust, The League of Friends of Dulwich Hospital, Healthy London Partnership and South London Health Partnership, working with Community Health Partnerships.
