An artist is currently showcasing her work at the Royal United Hospital (RUH) in Bath, the very hospital that treated her for skin cancer four years ago. Phil Batty, hailing from Atworth in Wiltshire, has created an exhibition titled “Still Alive,” inspired by her cancer journey. This display features floral pieces, still life, and collages, with one-third of the proceeds from sales being donated to the hospital.
In our interview, Ms. Batty expressed, “Still Alive is all about celebrating life and the fact that I’m still here, making the art that I love so much.” She shared her passion for art, noting, “I first started doing art because it makes me feel alive; it lights me up.”
Reflecting on her experience, Ms. Batty recounted her diagnosis of stage three malignant melanoma in 2019. “During my cancer treatment, art was something that always made me happy and gave me that creative focus,” she explained. Now in good health but still attending follow-up check-ups at the RUH, she relishes the opportunity to display her art in a place that held significant meaning during her battle with cancer.
“When I was treated for cancer, it was during lockdown, so it was a very uncertain time for everyone,” she recalled. “I remember how well the staff at the RUH looked after me – they were incredibly caring and supportive.”
Tony Smith, the exhibitions manager for Art at the Heart, the RUH’s in-house art and design team, commented on the importance of Ms. Batty’s work. “We have a program of temporary exhibitions featuring talented local artists, and it’s really special to have Phil’s work on display. Hearing about Phil’s experience creating art during such challenging times is truly inspiring. We hope that the exhibition brings enjoyment to patients, staff, and visitors at the RUH.”
The “Still Alive” exhibition is currently on view in the corridor outside the Friends of the RUH Café and was first exhibited at Corsham Gallery.
