A Clackmannan artist has donated a painting to Ward B31 at Forth Valley Royal Hospital to thank staff for the care they provided to his grandfather.
Kyle Blain has designed a mural of a bear and three cubs – representing his grandad, two brothers and himself – which he unveiled at the hospital.
Kyle explained: “My grandad fell seriously ill near the end of 2022 and spent much of 2023 in intensive care. During his stay, the doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to care for him day and night.
“With me being an artist, my grandad joked that I should paint all the hospital walls to brighten the space and give him something to look at. After he passed, I decided I wanted to donate a painting to the hospital as a thank you to the staff and as a memorial for him.”
As part of his work, Kyle contacted Artlink Central, who organise art exhibitions at Forth Valley Royal Hospital. He worked with Artlink, who helped find him a suitable location in the hospital to hang his design and it was then installed in Ward B31.
Standing at 120x100cm, this is the largest canvas that Kyle has worked on, and he hopes people would be able to see their own loved ones in it.
A plaque attached to the painting reads: “Dedicated to my grandad – Jim Jackson, who was lovingly cared for by the staff here at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.
“The bear, protecting her cubs amidst the butterflies and flowers, symbolises the strength, love and care that families provide for one another during difficult times.
“It is also a tribute to the compassionate nursers and healthcare staff who tirelessly support patients and their loved ones. I hope this artwork can serve as a reminder of the resilience, hope and connection shared as we look out for one another.”
In addition to the original, Kyle is also selling 50 limited edition prints of the painting on his website, with all proceeds going towards Forth Valley Royal Hospital.
