As visitors enter the NOC from the car park they are faced with the dramatic scale of a glass-fronted atrium that comprises the main reception area. At the centre of the atrium is a large circular column reaching high up into the roof structure. The Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre Heritage Display is fitted around the base of this. Six feature panels focus on different subject categories that specifically highlight the contrasts between past and present care.

The arts coordinator first contacted us in 2007 asking for our assistance in 'putting together a mural about the history of the hospital'. He secured a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and started the process of researching the history including involvement of local schools and the hospitals' arts group. Throughout the project we have reviewed and collated the information, steering the project forward and highlighting gaps that required more information.

Six feature panels focus on different subject categories that specifically highlight the contrasts between past and present care. The overall design is inspired by the chemical building blocks of life and the important stem cell research carried out at the hospital. The display utilises a structured grid design which reflects the structure of the windowpanes on the dramatic glass-fronted atrium.

At either end and between each of the subject panels, brushed aluminium columns are fitted to stand proud of the overall display. These depict separate statements by the Chair and Chief Executive; an inspiring poem written by a past nurse; and dramatic anatomical dot-screen printed images of the human form.

Feedback

"It has been a true privilege to be invited back to this wonderful unveiling ceremony with what I'm sure will be a huge attraction and focal point of interest to all that come to the hospital. We want to share our proud heritage with local people and this event demonstrates our outstanding international reputation among both orthopaedic surgeons and patients."

Joanna Foster

CBE Former NOC Chair