Community mosaic unveiled at Sandwood

The Deputy Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Amanda Farr DL, representing His Majesty King Charles, officially unveiled a colourful community mosaic at Sandwood Care Home in Sherwood on 5 June.

Funded by the Nottingham Freemasons, the artwork was created over several months and brought together residents, staff, families and members of the local community. The finished piece was also featured on the Sherwood Art Week Mosaic Trail.

Inspired by themes chosen by residents, the mosaic celebrates nature, inclusion and community, as well as the importance of a good cup of tea. It also marks Abbeyfield’s 70th anniversary.

Local artist Anna Dixon worked closely with the Sandwood community to bring the design to life. She led a series of creative workshops where residents, families and local volunteers worked together to place hundreds of tiles, giving residents and their loved ones the chance to spend time together while creating something for the whole community to enjoy.

Tina, whose father lives at Sandwood, said, “It was such a lovely afternoon and a wonderful way to spend quality time together.”

Resident Michael added that taking part was “better than I thought it would be,” and that seeing his own ideas reflected in the final design gave him “a feeling of belonging.”

Activities Coordinator Mel Spouge, who led the project, said, “The finished mosaic is a wonderful representation of the friendships, creativity and sense of belonging that make Sandwood such a special place.”

Adding a personal touch, the mosaic includes the handprints of residents, reflecting the creativity and teamwork that went into the project and the strong sense of community at Sandwood.

The finished artwork now has pride of place in Sandwood’s garden, where residents, staff, families and visitors can enjoy it for years to come.