‘Can you really see me?’: New immersive art installation opens at Wakefield Kirkgate Station
An immersive new art installation, ‘Can you really see me?’, is now on display at Wakefield Kirkgate train station, inviting people to think about identity, visibility and what it really means to be seen.
The installation was created by The Prince of Wales Hospice and is shaped by the voices of patients, carers, staff, volunteers and community service users.
The artwork is installed in the LonGBoaT gallery space at the station and has been delivered in partnership with LonGBoaT and marks Dying Matters Awareness Week.
While it links to the campaign’s focus on open conversations about dying, it also reflects LonGBoaT’s commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion.
The project was led by Jo Lister, Wellbeing Coordinator at The Prince of Wales Hospice, along with Occupational Therapist Chris Cook and other members of the hospice’s
Wellbeing and Community team.
Words featured throughout the installation came from conversations with hospice patients, staff, volunteers and community service users.
These words represent labels that can influence how people are seen. Sometimes, these labels can get in the way of seeing the whole person.
The artwork includes a partly covered window and a central figure. Together, they encourage viewers to think about how understanding others often takes time, patience and
care.
By placing the work in a busy public space, the installation invites people passing through the station to pause and reflect on identity beyond first impressions and labels.
Jo Lister said: “We try to see the whole person, not just an illness, a role or a label.
"This piece gently asks people to stop and think about how easily the person at the centre can be missed, especially in places where people are often defined by their situation rather than who they truly are.”
Alongside the installation, The Prince of Wales Hospice is collaborating with other organisations to support Dying Matters Awareness Week through a range of events and
activities aimed at opening up conversations about dying, death and grief.
Those still to be held are:
*Tuesday, May 12 at Pinderfields Hospital Atrium, 10am – 2pm
*Thursday May 14 at The Ridings Shopping Centre with Age UK 10am – 12pm
‘Can you really see me?’ is free to view in the LonGBoaT gallery at Wakefield Kirkgate train station until Sunday, May 31.