Elgin artist donates painting to Dr Gray's Hospital
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A local artist has donated this painting to Dr Gray's Hospital to put on display in its Pluscarden outpatient clinic.
‘Spring WILL Come’ is the work of Ruth Asiabani who lives in Elgin.
The 44-year-old artist said: "When people are suffering and a situation seems unbearable, they need hope, which is why I wanted to donate to Pluscarden.
"The dark background symbolises the difficult time a patient or loved one may be going through, but the brighter spring flowers are emerging from the darkness portraying that nothing lasts forever and things can improve.
"I remember my granny, who experienced many challenges in life, often used to say, 'It's the darkest hour before the dawn'."
As well as painting and teaching English, Ruth offers wellness and massage therapies.
She added: "I enjoy helping those I'm privileged to work with in all areas of my life. My art is all based on nature and my aim is to bring that indoors to promote wellbeing.
"The mind and body work so closely together, yet we often focus only on one ailment rather than looking at the full picture.
"Art is a well-known therapy. You can become so immersed during the creative process that it can give relief from negative energy or emotions.
"Looking at art is also beneficial as it gives the viewer something to focus on and engage with, especially during a difficult time."
Ruth's painting recently featured in her first ever exhibition, along with fellow local artists Lisa Colwell and Stephanie Russell Snyder, at Elgin Library.
Corrine Lackie, acting lead mental health nurse at Dr Gray’s, accepted it on behalf of the hospital.
She said: "The depth and symbolism behind ‘Spring WILL Come’ holds a pivotal message that our team strive to convey to patients.
"By displaying it in our outpatient clinic area, we are hopeful that they, and their relatives, will be provided with the brightness and reflection that Ruth has conveyed in her work."
