To help decorate the majestic Poynder Apartments (the former Kelso High School building), Eildon Housing have been working in partnership with Art in Healthcare who lend from their extensive collection of modern and contemporary Scottish art.  Using visual art to help people feel better - Art in Healthcare

Art in Healthcare’s artworks have been collected with the intention of placing them into health and social care settings, to make environments more friendly, welcoming and stimulating for the individuals who make use of them.

Amanda Miller, Eildon Housing’s Director of Community Services said: “We first got in touch with Art in Healthcare late last year, and since then they have curated 16 pieces from their extensive collection to be on loan at Poynder Apartments. These fantastic artworks are now on display in the corridors leading to the lounge area and within the lounge area at Poynder Apartments. I believe they have brought a real warmth and sense of homeliness to this space, and we are fortunate enough to have them on loan for a full year.” 

The artworks were formally launched at an event on Friday 21 March 2025 when artist Ursula Bevan Hunter gave a presentation with some background on each of the artists. This is being followed by a series of seven hands-on creative ‘conversation starter’ workshops for tenants living at Poyner Apartments. The workshops provide an opportunity to discuss the artworks on loan and to try painting, drawing and printmaking inspired by nature and the seasons – even if they have never tried anything like this before.

Ursula Bevan Hunter said: “Having this number of workshops will help to develop relationships and introduce a range of approaches and maximise engagement with the largest number of residents. In addition to supporting meaningful feedback about artworks, the workshops will also identify themes, approaches and art forms to be built upon for future phases of the art programme at Poynder Apartments. I am really looking forward to getting to know the tenants through these workshops and drawing on the inspiration of the building’s unique art deco heritage."