Many of us have done something to support healthcare workers for their hard work during this time. Some of us have sewen homemade masks for the staff who have difficulty finding ready-made masks in stores. Others of us have posted something supportive about these workers on our social media accounts. And some of us may have even donated money to help fund medical supplies for frontline workers. Either way, we all show our support in different ways.
One way the healthcare workers at Southampton General Hospital in Southampton, England were supported during the C*********s was by receiving a large painting by talented street artist, Banksy.
The black-and-white artwork features a young boy next to a wastebasket containing different superhero action figures. Although he has several action figures he could have chosen to play with, the child instead played with a nurse action figure, who is wearing a mask and a cape. He holds her up in the air like a superhero who’s ready to save the world.
Superheroes may be fragments of our imagination. However, the beautiful piece symbolizes the fact that we see nurses and other healthcare workers as true heroes. And that is exactly what they are! Nobody, not even Superman or Spiderman, can compare to the heroic characteristics of a healthcare worker.
he Banksy painting reflects what we all feel about these essential workers, especially during times like these. Banksy, too, would agree with the message that his artwork visually represents.
“Thanks for all you’re doing. I hope this brightens the place up a bit, even if its only black and white,” the artist said in a memo when he dropped off the piece.
The CEO of the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Paula Head, reacted very positivity upon seeing the painting for the first time. According to her, the rest of the hospital staff felt the same way.
“Our hospital family has been directly impacted with the tragic loss of much loved and respected members of staff and friends,” she said. “The fact that Banksy has chosen us to recognize the outstanding contribution everyone in and with the NHS is making, in unprecedented times, is a huge honor.”
This was exactly what the hospital needed right now. A little love and support can go a long way.
“It will be really valued by everyone in the hospital, as people get a moment in their busy lives to pause, reflect and appreciate this piece of art. It will no doubt also be a massive boost to morale for everyone who works and is cared for at our hospital.”
View the artwork for yourself by watching down below. It really is a wonderful piece of art!
