ARTWORK by a Tameside cancer patient is on display at a major Manchester exhibition, as part of a powerful showcase highlighting the role of creativity during treatment.
Patients from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust have been invited to exhibit their work at The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, an immersive exhibition at Mayfield Depot.
The opportunity comes through a partnership with The Christie Charity, which will also use the exhibition to raise funds for a new state-of-the-art scanner, aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Among those taking part is Tameside resident Derrick Evans, who has faced cancer multiple times and is well known locally for founding the Stalybridge-based charity Cancer Warriors.
His artwork, created during sessions at The Christie, will be displayed, and even auctioned, as part of the exhibition.
Derrick said: “The art room has completely changed my life… it’s given me confidence, helped me process what I’m going through, and introduced me to people who truly understand, as well as a safe space, it’s extremely exciting to know a bit of my art is on display and to be auctioned off to help raise funds.”
The Christie is the only hospital in the UK to offer a dedicated art service for patients, funded entirely through its charity. Led by artist in residence Pat Mountford, the sessions are designed to provide a calm, supportive environment for patients navigating treatment.
Pat said: “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 exhibition, inspired by the work and mystery of renowned street artist Banksy, is on display now until July 5.
As well as celebrating patient creativity, it will support an appeal to bring a Total Body PET-CT scanner to The Christie – technology that could help detect cancer earlier and tailor treatment more precisely.
For Derrick and others involved, the exhibition represents more than just an artistic milestone – it’s a chance to share their stories, connect with others, and turn personal challenges into something positive for the wider community.