Patients from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to see their artwork exhibited in Manchester this month, as The Christie Charity partners with the upcoming immersive exhibition The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind at Depot Mayfield.
The Christie Charity has been invited to showcase a selection of artwork created by patients at the world leading hospital, highlighting the role art plays in supporting cancer patients.
The exhibition, making its UK debut in Manchester, celebrates the powerful, visual storytelling associated with Banksy. Alongside around 200 Banksy-inspired works, the event will feature pieces created by Christie patients.
The Christie is the only hospital in the UK that offers a dedicated art service for patients. Funded by The Christie Charity which supports the work of the hospital, it provides a relaxed and welcoming space for patients between treatments. Led by Artist in Residence Pat Mountford and supported by volunteers, the sessions are informal, accessible and open to all. No previous artistic experience is required, and patients can drop in as and when they choose.
The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind exhibition will be raising money towards a state-of-the-art Total Body PET-CT scanner (one of only five in the UK) used to identify cancer more easily and develop faster targeted treatment. There will be ‘tap to donate’ spots around the exhibition, alongside a dedicated charity event takeover, sponsored by The DDC Group and Eamar Developments (UK), and an exclusively commissioned monkey figure which will be donated to The Christie Charity by the event organisers for auction.
Attendees will also receive a link once they’ve purchased tickets to facilitate voluntary online donations.
Pat Mountford, Artist in Residence at The Christie, said: “Art has an extraordinary ability to help people process what they’re going through. For many patients, the art room becomes a place of calm, creativity and connection at a time when life can feel overwhelming. Seeing their work showcased in a public exhibition is incredibly empowering.”
The art room offers patients a place to unwind during what is often of the most challenging period of their lives. Through painting, drawing and collaborative projects with one another, patients are encouraged to explore their creativity, connect with others and take time away from the clinical environment.
Paul King, a Christie patient from Old Trafford who has been attending art sessions during his treatment for prostate cancer, said: “The art room has completely changed my experience of being in hospital. When you’re going through cancer treatment, so much feels out of your control. In the art room, I can switch off from appointments and focus on creating something that’s mine. It’s given me confidence, helped me process what I’m going through, and introduced me to people who truly understand. Seeing our work displayed publicly feels incredibly special. It shows that something positive can grow out of a really difficult time.”
Louise Hadley, CEO of The Christie Charity, said: “We are delighted to be the chosen charity for The Mystery of Banksy, A Genius Mind exhibition. It is an incredibly exciting opportunity for us and one that will ultimately benefit cancer patients both now and in the future. To have a room dedicated to the artwork of patients really showcases the impact art can have. The partnership with the exhibition allows us to shine a light on the incredibly important work of our Charity.”
Dr Abdullah Alnaeem, CEO of Eamar Developments UK, said: " We are honoured to support this inspiring initiative alongside The Christie Charity. The opportunity for patients to showcase their artwork in such a powerful exhibition highlights the important role creativity and community play in supporting wellbeing during challenging times. At Eamar Developments, we believe in giving back and supporting causes that make a meaningful difference, and we are proud to be part of an event that raises both awareness and vital funds for cancer care.”
“Partnering with The Christie Charity for this event is a privilege,” said Jan Trevalyan, co-founder and Chairman of the Board of The DDC Group. “These patients show incredible resilience, and this event helps raise vital funds to support their treatment. It’s a powerful reminder of what people can accomplish when they come together for a good cause.”
Visitors to the exhibition will also have the opportunity to bid on the Christie patient artwork. A QR code displayed alongside the artwork will allow members of the public to place bids, with all proceeds supporting fundraising efforts for the Total Body PET-CT Scanner.
Additional pieces created by patients will be displayed throughout The Christie’s hospital corridors and will also be available to bid on as part of the auction.
The exhibition runs from 13 March 2026 to 5 July 2026 at Depot Mayfield in Manchester.
Open to all, standard adult tickets start at £22. Tickets are free for curious minds under the age of 6, with concession tickets also available for 7 to 16 year olds, seniors and all NHS workers. More information can be found at The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind.
To support The Christie Charity’s Total Body PET-CT scanner appeal please go to Help fund a Total Body PET-CT scanner to see cancer more clearly or ring 0161 446 3988.
The Christie Charity supports the work of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust providing enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. This includes money for care and treatment, research, education, and extra patient services. Gifts from the public make a huge difference to the care and treatment that The Christie is able to provide to cancer patients and their families.