Julie Royal - More than a badge

Lorna says: "Painting Julie was truly an honour - to show gratitude in some small way to her as an unsung hero of the NHS. When Julie's friend nominated her, she described a selfless young widow of two children, working hard to help keep the cogs of our beloved national health machine oiled. I am personally 3 years on from a breast cancer diagnosis and owe my life to the incredible dedication of all the NHS staff and services I have encountered.

An alternative title for this work could perhaps be 'Julie Royal...An NHS commission by an artist in remission' "

Julie says: "I was lucky enough to be nominated for an NHS portrait by my dear friend Sam, who knew I was working on a Covid Ward as a Ward Clerk. She asked me to send her a photograph of me at work, which I did and thought nothing more of it until I received a message from her including an attachment of what I thought was the original photo I had sent her. I then suddenly realised I’d had the honour of being chosen by Lorna and couldn’t believe how lifelike it was.

Even after receiving the actual portrait itself I still can’t believe just how much detail can go into one canvas, especially my necklace and the name badge was just incredible. I am in total awe of Lorna as an artist. This portrait will forever be a reminder not just of those difficult times, but for my love and respect of my work family, whom I had the privilege to share that time with. I will always be thankful to Lorna as this portrait will forever hold a special place in my heart."