Coronavirus: Banksy unveils artwork in Southampton hospital depicting NHS nurse as superhero

‘Thanks for all you’re doing,’ enigmatic street artist wrote in note to workers

Jacob Stolworthy
Wednesday 06 May 2020 19:39 BST
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Banksy mural, previously hidden, is rediscovered

Banksy has unveiled a new artwork in Southampton General Hospital depicting a nurse as a superhero.

The piece, titled Game Changer, can be seen on Level C of the building, and was made as a thank you to staff for their hard work during the coronavirus pandemic.

Following its unveiling, the enigmatic street artist left a note for hospital workers, which read: “I hope this brightens the place up a bit, even if its only black and white.”

The artwork specifically shows a boy playing with a nurse superhero toy, while figures of famous costumed heroes Batman and Spiderman lie in a rubbish bin.

This nurse wears a cape, face mask and a white apron emblazoned with a red cross. She also has her arm raised as if she is flying.

It will be available to view in public once lockdown guidelines are lifted.

A spokeswoman for Banksy also confirmed the artwork will eventually be auctioned to raise money for NHS charities.

Paula Head, chief executive of University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Here at Southampton, our hospital family has been directly impacted with the tragic loss of much loved and respected members of staff and friends.

“The fact that Banksy has chosen us to recognise the outstanding contribution everyone in and with the NHS is making, in unprecedented times, is a huge honour.

“It will be really valued by everyone in the hospital as people get a moment in their busy lives to pause, reflect and appreciate this piece of art.

“It will no doubt also be a massive boost to morale for everyone who works and is cared for at our hospital.”

The enigmatic street artist’s latest piece is a thank you to NHS staff

The hospital previously paid tribute to members of staff Mike Brown, 61, and Katy Davis, 38, who both died after testing positive for coronavirus.

Mr Brown, a linen porter who had been with the organisation for 20 years, died on 29 April after receiving care in the hospital’s critical care unit.

He was described as a well-recognised and popular member of staff who shared his good sense of humour with those around him.

Ms Davis, who worked in child health, had been unwell for some time before her admission to hospital and died on 21 April after testing positive for Covid-19.

She was described by Ms Head as a “nurse people would aspire to be like”.

Additional reporting by Agencies

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