Changing the world one painting at a time: Adam's artwork creates a lasting impression

Talented local artist Adam Salisbury is no stranger to the Trust, having completed several projects here over the past few years.  His latest project transforming 10 rooms in our haematology department has just two rooms left to complete.

Adam has specialised in creating murals and child-friendly art here since 2019 with early works referencing The Lion King and Frozen when he painted in X-Ray North and then moving on to Wards 34 and 35. Enhancing the hospital environment through art provides comfort and cheer to patients who may be anxious or missing home.

But despite his familiarity with our walls, wards and corridors, for Adam, it’s more than just another painting commission as the work here carries many personal and emotional connections.

As a child visiting the hospital himself, he remembers wanting to see a Thomas the Tank Engine mural that was a feature here at the time. In Ward 34/35  there is a Blackpool tram artwork dedicated to Adam’s grandfather who encouraged him to pursue his artistic interests. The tram alone has had over 70,000 views online.

Adam also met his wife Sade, through social media after she’d seen his work and messaged him. In Adam’s words “So doing what I love brought a love to me! Full circle moment!”

To this day Adam receives photos from appreciative patients and relatives at Whitegate Medical Centre, praising the artwork he’s done there. Adam’s Mum, Maureen also works at the Trust.

Other examples of Adam’s work can be seen in the Macmillan Centre where a waterfall scene at sunset graces one of the rooms. The waterfall was paid for by a patient’s family as a thank you for the care he received.

In the Victoria Centre, all of the rooms were painted by Adam in 2023, in a large project that was funded by Safeguarding.

Creating all these works of art might sound like a full-time role however Adam’s “day job” is a tattooist.

Adam said: “I believe in giving out good in the world and then good will come to you. You should try and do what you love. I guess I’m aiming to change the world, one painting at a time”.

His next stop could be Maternity who are planning some new art for their delivery suite.

“None of this would have been possible without Blue Skies Charity, who funded the projects and supported the vision from the very beginning. Their backing, alongside hospital funding aimed at improving patient spaces, has allowed these clinical environments to be transformed into warmer, more welcoming places.”