Exhibition marks milestone in art therapy cancer care

A scholarship which has made an “incalculable contribution” to the field of art therapy in cancer care is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special publication and exhibition at Goldsmiths, University of London.

The Corinne Burton Memorial Scholarship has supported art psychotherapy students at Goldsmiths since 1993.

The scholarship is provided by the Corinne Burton Memorial Trust (CBMT) which was founded by Sir Michael Burton QC following the death of his illustrator wife Corinne from cancer. It is awarded every year to a student who wishes to study art psychotherapy with a view to cancer care in particular.

Some 27 Goldsmiths alumni have benefited from the support, which sees a students’ fees paid for two years plus two further years of financial help providing they continue their work in art therapy.

Writing in the introduction to a limited edition publication to accompany the exhibition, Sir Michael paid tribute to the “great talent” of the students who have participated.

He said: “They come from the backgrounds and experiences of nurse, carer, trained counsellor and artist, and all these skills are then combined so as to enable them to become art psychotherapists and provide a unique service to those in need.

“In the 25 years in which we have been able to help to increase the number of these wonderful people, we have also learned to admire them.”

Sir Michael, who was made an Honorary Fellow of Goldsmiths in 1998, added that the scheme has seen strong partnerships built with institutions like Saint Bartholomew’s Hospital – as well as globally with alumni working across the world.

Both the exhibition and publication examine how art therapy has helped support and empower cancer patients.

Warden of Goldsmiths Patrick Loughrey hailed the involvement of Professor Diane Waller, who helped establish Goldsmiths as a centre of excellence for art therapy as well as forged the link between the CBMT and the College.

He said: “It is remarkable to reflect on the contribution that has been made, and continues to be made, by the 27 Goldsmiths alumni who have been supported by the scholarship.”

A special celebration is being held on 11 July to mark the anniversary, with the exhibition on campus from 5 to 20 July. 

• There are a number of ways to support access to education at Goldsmiths for outstanding students regardless of their financial circumstances. To find out more please visit our Giving to Goldsmiths page.