An apocalyptic vision depicting the destruction of London and a whimsical squirrel drawing created by a failed royal assassin are among the striking artworks featured in a compelling new exhibition at the world's oldest psychiatric hospital. These remarkable pieces are part of a thought-provoking display that explores the often fragile boundary between our sleeping and waking lives, where some individuals struggle to distinguish between dreams and reality.

Most people have experienced waking up in a cold sweat from nightmares that, fortunately, quickly fade from memory, leaving only a lingering sense of terror. However, when these disturbing memories refuse to disappear, they can sometimes manifest as waking fears and psychological distress. For centuries, it was Bethlem Hospital's mission to treat those suffering from such afflictions.

Art has long served a dual purpose for psychiatric patients: providing both an escape from their mental torments and a means of communicating their experiences to medical professionals. The Bethlem Museum of the Mind has now assembled a fascinating collection of artworks that delve into the complex realm of dreams and visions, offering visitors a unique window into the human psyche.

The exhibition showcases two dozen works by notable artists including William Kurelek, Charlotte Johnson Wahl, Jonathan Martin, and Bryan Charnley. The display is dominated by contemporary artist Kate McDonnell's expansive installation titled "Night Tides," which powerfully captures the restlessness and frustration experienced during sleepless nights. The diverse collection ranges from intimate sketches to massive canvases, with some pieces featuring exceptionally intricate details while others use striking simplicity to hint at the artists' inner mental landscapes.

Among the most compelling pieces is the apocalyptic London destruction scene created by Jonathan Martin, an artist and arsonist who was confined at Bethlem Hospital from 1829 until his death in 1838. The squirrel artwork originated from a poem by James Hadfield, the man who attempted to assassinate King George III. Hadfield's failed assassination attempt led to a swift change in British law, ensuring he was sent to Bethlem as a "criminal lunatic" rather than being executed as he had initially desired.

As a comprehensive collection, the exhibition reflects the remarkable diversity of both the individuals who created these artworks and the various mental illnesses they battled. The accompanying explanatory captions provide intimate glimpses into their minds and experiences, potentially evoking empathy and understanding from visitors about their struggles.

"Between Sleeping and Waking: Hospital Dreams and Visions" will remain on display at the Bethlem Museum of the Mind through November 8, 2025, with free admission for all visitors. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Located approximately a 15-minute walk from Eden Park railway station, the museum is also accessible via the SL5 Superloop bus service from East Croydon, which stops directly outside the facility.