The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Education Institute launched the 2015 Children’s Artwork Calendar this week, showcasing some of the impressive artwork that has been produced by patients in the hospital’s arts-based education program.

One of the artists whose work features in the calendar is former RCH patient Jack Steele. Twenty year old Jack was encouraged to paint during his stay at the RCH by Head of Arts Education, Antoinette Domoney and other RCH teachers. Jack created a series of paintings he calls ‘Desert Nights’, which were inspired by the works of Wassily Kandinsky and Aboriginal artist Emily Kame Kngwarreye.

Jack’s father Ray says the benefits of the RCH Education Institute art education program for Jack were immense.

“Having the opportunity to learn painting skills and explore the world of art increased Jack’s self confidence and self worth and enabled him to work independently and be accepted for something he created on his own. It also gave Jack a meaningful project to fulfil during his seven week stint in hospital,” said Ray.

Before his participation in the RCH Education Institute learning program, Jack’s artistic endeavours had been limited. RCH teachers extended his skills and interests by introducing Jack to oil paints.

Jack’s passion for painting has continued since he left the hospital and he is now enrolled in an art program run by Mornington Shire Council. Jack returned to the RCH for the launch of the calendar this week.

Buy your 2015 Children’s Artwork Calendar during the month of November from the RCH Shop or online at www.giftshop.rch.org.au and enter the draw to win a night at The Larwill Studio valued at $189.

Funds raised through sales of the calendar will support future art education projects for RCH patients.