26 October 2020

A unique piano painted by British artist Annie Sloan has been sold to raise funds to support the NHS hospital arts programme in Bristol.

The John Broadwood piano was transformed by the chalk painter famed for her books on traditional paints and decorative painting techniques.

The incredible one-of-a-kind piano was accompanied by a bespoke stool finished with textile designed by Charlotte Macmillan. Together they created a unique artistically decorated combination, which was sold to an individual buyer.

Sold by The Piano Shop Bath, the money from the sale of the stunning piano and stool will benefit the Arts and Culture Programme at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW). Activities offered by the programme include music, which supports the health and wellbeing of isolated patients and NHS staff.

The Piano Shop Bath owner, Jon Kelly said, “Annie has hand painted and signed the piano which makes this piece totally unique. Along with Charlotte, we were all very keen to do something to honour and help our healthcare workers and this seemed like the perfect way to do just that. The piano and stool are beautiful and will make wonderful, eye-catching additions.”

The Arts and Culture Programme at UHBW is supported by Above & Beyond.

Anna Farthing, arts program director at the Trust, said: “Research proves that engaging with the arts, including music, has numerous health benefits. At this time of increased anxiety, with necessary restrictions on visiting, it is even more important that patients are offered opportunities for creative relaxation.

“The Arts and Culture Programme at UHBW is therefore very grateful to the team at The Piano Shop Bath, both for providing pianos for all of our ten hospital sites, and now for this wonderful design project and kind donation. Their partnership support is immensely valuable.”

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