A Groundbreaking Exhibition Launches at V&A Dundee

Dive into the rich tapestry of Dundee’s medical heritage with a striking new exhibition at V&A Dundee. "Ninewells Hospital: Care, Community and Innovation" is a free showcase dedicated to illustrating the hospital's remarkable influence on healthcare design and innovation.

Ninewells Hospital: A Trailblazing Institution

Celebrating its 50th anniversary last year, Ninewells Hospital made history as the UK's first medical facility to incorporate a medical school into its design. This visionary approach transformed healthcare delivery, featuring avant-garde architecture that facilitated future expansions and provided ground-level access from every floor.

An Interactive Journey Through Medical Milestones

The exhibition features an interactive visual timeline that stretches back to 1798, showcasing Dundee and Tayside’s major medical achievements. It highlights locally developed breakthroughs in personalized medicine, revolutionary surgical techniques, and pioneering approaches to cancer care—all heavily influenced by the University of Dundee’s affiliation with Ninewells.

A Tapestry of Human Stories

At its heart, the exhibition shines a spotlight on the people who make Ninewells Hospital what it is today. Visitors can explore films featuring a variety of staff—from anesthetists to kitchen staff—while artworks reflecting hospital life during the pandemic add depth to the narrative. Attendees are invited to contribute their own memories, fostering a living display that encapsulates the hospital's lasting impact on the community.

Surgical Innovations on Display

Delving deeper into the exhibition's objects, attendees will find a fascinating array of surgical tools, including prototype instruments from keyhole surgeries pioneered at Ninewells. A focus on the Tayside Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Technology Centre reveals the crucial role of bespoke mobility aids, showcasing both a 1947 wooden prosthetic leg and a modern Bluetooth-enabled counterpart.

A Legacy of Research and Future Innovations

The exhibition not only reflects on the past but also looks forward, featuring designs from researchers that highlight Ninewells' ongoing influence in shaping the future of healthcare through partnerships with NHS Tayside and the University of Dundee's state-of-the-art research facilities.

Voices of Impact: Community Reflections

Louise Dickson, Assistant Curator at V&A Dundee, emphasizes Dundee's legacy in medical innovation, saying, "This exhibition will ignite memories and conversations, reminding us how integral Ninewells is to our community and healthcare evolution. It's a celebration of progress that resonates far beyond our city."

A Collective Pride