GOSH Arts launch new exhibition From the Morning Light

'From the Morning Light' is the result of a very special collaborative project between families and staff from our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and artist Nicole Morris.

The exhibition documents the relationship between a mother, Dina, and her child, Carmen, during their first months together on the NICU.

Their experience reflects a story shared by many families in the NICU, where parents’ first days, and often months, of getting to know their baby take place unexpectedly in hospital. During this time, families often search for moments of closeness and connection while their child receives the urgent specialist care they need.

Artist Nicole visited the NICU each week for eight months. She spent time with Dina and Carmen, as well as many other families, sitting with them at the bedside, talking and making together as the morning light slowly filled the open ward.

These thoughtfully facilitated interactions between parents, and their babies marked tender moments of time together, as well as important milestones in care and recovery - moments often filled with complex and powerful emotions.

From textiles and poetry to drawing and photography. Acts of looking, holding and falling in love were captured in words and stitches, preserving both those precious days and hours whilst also offering a meditative space for reflection.

With enormous thanks to the wonderful Nicole Morris and to Dina, Carmen and Hugo for sharing their story so openly.

Thank you also to the incredible NICU Family Liaison team who so generously offered their expertise, guidance and support.

Thank you also to all the staff and families on the NICU who were involved in this project.

The exhibition was beautifully designed by Shaz Mandani.

If you wish to get in touch regarding the exhibition, please email GOSH Arts

Email: gosharts@gosh.nhs.uk