Art Exhibition coming to Torbay Hospital featuring nationally acclaimed artist

A new exhibition launching at Torbay Hospital this month is set to brighten the corridors with the striking designs of British artist Lucy Turner.

Part of the 2026 HeArTs exhibition series, Lucy’s work will be on display from Sunday 18 January to Saturday 18 April in the HeArTs Gallery on level 4, behind the hospital’s main entrance.

Lucy has spent more than 20 years perfecting the art of marquetry, a decorative technique in which coloured Formica laminate is arranged to create intricate patterns, pictures, and designs on panels and objects. The result is vibrant, playful furniture and interior pieces that have earned her national acclaim.

After studying 3D design at the University of Plymouth, Lucy taught herself the techniques of marquetry, developing a unique style that can now be seen across the world. Drawing inspiration from her smallholding in Somerset, she says:

“I have always made things which are inspired by my surroundings. I believe inspiration is everywhere. It can take many forms and hit me in a flash; there is no formal process. Work is my passion and I strive to perfect what I do. I love every minute of it.”

Lucy has created collections of brightly coloured, circular designs specifically for this show, which will be installed in clusters and varying configurations along the gallery corridor.

Artist in residence Helen Snell added, “Lucy’s work is joyful, elegant, and uplifting, and is a perfect fit for the HeArTs gallery space. 

“The hints of pop art and mid-century design in her repeating motifs clearly lend themselves to a range of interior settings and it is especially exciting to see them within a hospital environment.”

The exhibition is free to view, and 40% of all sales will go directly to the HeArTs Charitable Fund, supporting patients and staff at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. 

Those interested in purchasing pieces can contact Lucy at info@lucyturnermodernmarquetry.com or 07916 136078. 

More of her work can also be viewed online at www.lucyturnermodernmarquetry.com and on Instagram.