Embers of Care exhibition shines a light on internationally educated OUH colleagues
13 February 2026
A striking new exhibition celebrating the stories, strength and contributions of internationally educated NHS staff is now on display at the John Radcliffe Hospital, part of Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) NHS Foundation Trust.
Embers of Care, a national portrait series by artist and nurse John Yayen, features beautiful new portraits of OUH colleagues. The exhibition highlights the invaluable role that migrant workers play at OUH and across the wider NHS, and the compassion, resilience and dedication they bring to patient care every day.
John, a contemporary artist and registered nurse originally from Palawan in the Philippines, is creating a 100‑piece portrait collection honouring migrant healthcare workers from across the UK. The stories of OUH’s internationally educated staff have inspired eight of the artworks selected for display in NHS hospitals nationwide.
OUH staff members Alessia Gnocco, Ancy Darly George, Anita Immanuel, Martina Kliska, Meshak Daniels, Pavana Pillai, Raja Anbarasan and Samantha Gounden were selected to share their stories for the series — stories that will resonate with many more migrant staff not just across the Trust, but wider healthcare and beyond.
John said: "I believe those who work in healthcare practice the most beautiful art of all: healing. Like embers, they quietly burn with compassion and dedication. And while each ember may seem small alone, together they create a strong, united flame—a collective light that guides and brings warmth to others.
"It was a pleasure to interview some of the staff members at OUH and have the opportunity to put their stories on a canvas. Each portrait in the series draws on the lived experiences, reflections and personal symbols shared by the migrant staff — capturing their journeys with honesty, pride and solidarity."
The eight portraits will be donated to the Trust by the artist to be displayed across our hospital sites. The project was kindly supported by Oxford Hospitals Charity.
Ruth Charity, Arts Lead at Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: "It is amazing how insightful these portraits are. The faces pique the interest of visitors and staff, drawing them in to look more closely and read their stories. These are fascinating stories that offer a glimpse into the challenges and sacrifices made by our migrant staff, as well as their wins and joys."
Terry Roberts, Chief People Officer at OUH, said: "Thank you to John Yayen for this powerful exhibition, and to our staff members who generously shared their stories. Their experiences remind us of the richness that diversity brings to OUH and of our commitment to foster an inclusive and welcoming workplace for all. We are proud of our internationally educated staff and grateful for the skills, compassion and dedication they contribute to our patient care every day."
The exhibition is on display in the Corridor Gallery at the John Radcliffe Hospital until 28 February 2026. It will then move to the South Street Gallery at the Churchill Hospital from 28 February to 4 April.
Embers of Care virtual presentation
To accompany the exhibition, the OUH Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Staff Network and Oxford Hospitals Charity are hosting a virtual presentation on Tuesday 17 February, 1–1.30pm.
During the online session, John Yayen will discuss the inspiration behind Embers of Care, exploring the struggles, triumphs and contributions of international healthcare workers through visual art and storytelling.
