Nora Gaston

Nora was Arts Care's first Artist-in-Residence, she pioneered many of the successful patient and staff centred approaches used by Arts Care today. After many years of outstanding achievements she retired at the end of November 2006.

Nora Gaston, who has worked with the Arts Care since its establishment in 1992, has made a positive and lasting impact both on Green Park Healthcare Trust and on the culture of Arts Care and its approach to art and health. Her experience and ability has been invaluable to the organisation and, with her recent retirement, will be sorely missed.

As Artist-in-residence Nora Gaston worked to contribute to the healing and well-being of patients and staff, to help patient's recovery, improve staff and patients morale and provide reassurance to visitors. Nora organised events involving all forms of artistic expression - painting, sculpture, drama, music and dance.

Nora has been an active fundraiser, making applications to local and national funding bodies and local businesses, as well as organising fundraising events such as house pantomimes, variety shows and craft fairs. The funding raised allowed Nora to respond to staff requests and the growing demand for arts activities in the trust.

Biography:

Represented Canada at the United Nations in New York, with the painting being bought by Volvo for their collection

Commissioned to design 10 windows for a church in Canada, and recently one for Belfast City Hall

Featured in the first Kazakhstan International Arts Festival

Sculpture commissions include E.H.S.S.B. in Linenhall Street and Musgrave Park Hospital