An exhibition of stunning artefacts from the York Minster archive has now gone live at city hospitals.
And students at York St John University have played a pivotal part.
Photography students were given the opportunity to photograph some of the fantastic artefacts that are not normally on show to the public.
This included objects including prayer books from the 15th century, stunning illuminated manuscripts, a road map of Yorkshire from 1675 and even a specially commissioned silver teapot.
The work has now gone on show in York Hospital and in Foss Park Hospital.
The Minster Collections comprise thousands of objects. Some are on display in the Minster, but many more are housed in the Old Palace, found at the edge of Dean’s Park.
To protect the items, they had to be photographed in situ. Specialist technicians Jen Todman and Paul Spillett from York St John set up a temporary photography studio in the Old Palace. Students were then supported in developing the photoshoot.
Jen said: “It was an absolute privilege to be given the opportunity to photograph some of the wonderful artefacts from the Minster Archive. I found it very humbling and awe inspiring, witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the craftsmanship laid out before us.
“The history and events that these objects have witnessed, the stories that they could tell! Hundreds of years of history woven into the intricate needlework, exquisite ornithological illustrations and page after page of stunning illuminated letters and handwritten text.”
Ethan Goodrich and Lewis Mitchell are two of the second year photography students involved.
Ethan said: “Participating in the exhibition was an incredible opportunity. It provided valuable experience, allowing us to learn not only the technical aspects of photography within this genre but also the essential knowledge of exhibiting work.
“The unique invitation from the Minster Archive to photograph and document objects of significant historical importance to York and its surroundings was fascinating. The resulting display in a hospital setting created something special for both the students and the viewers.”
Lewis added: “It was very fulfilling knowing that the project would be used in such a way that allowed the hospital’s often closed-in community to experience the joy and inspiration that a museum would elicit, whilst ensuring they are in safe hands.”
Kirsty Mitchell, York Minster’s curator of collections & interpretation said: “The 300,000 objects that make up York Minster’s historic collection each tell fascinating stories about the Minster’s past and present.
“They are a treasure trove, spanning almost 2,000 years of history. We are delighted to share them beyond the walls of the Minster and see how the students have interpreted them.”
Elly Ross from the arts team at York & Scarborough Hospitals said: “The arts team is supported by York & Scarborough Teaching Hospital Charity to do uplifting projects to help brighten and change clinical spaces around our hospitals. This is another successful collaboration with YSJ Photography students.
“The exhibition is proving popular for patients, visitors, and staff. Last week an ambulance crew member turned onto the corridor and immediately said “Oh wow, these are amazing! Brilliant!”