The Arts and Health tours are ready to kick off for 2014 with more than 100 paintings, drawings, installations and sculptures on show.

Curator Bradley Hammond said the halls and courtyards of Orange Health Service housed some amazing artworks by well-known artists.

“Ours is unique in many ways,” he said. “It’s rare to have a public collection in the health service ... there’s some real gems in it.”

The idea of having artworks in a health service is growing in popularity, according to Mr Hammond.

“It adds interest for patients and their families and staff,” he said.

Mr Hammond said the hour-long monthly tours would engage people in ways they might not usually engage with art.

“Tours are a way of looking at something richer and deeper,” he said. “A way of giving people background information of what the artist intended.”

During the tour  participants will be guided through a number of artworks while learning the stories behind the works of artists such as Tim Storrier, Elisabeth Cummings, Idris Murphy and G.W. Bot.

“I find many people are interested to hear how the painting was made,” Mr Hammond said. “It’s a way of connecting people to the exhibition.”

Following the first tour on Friday tours will then be held on the first Friday of every month at 1pm.

Places are limited and bookings are essential by calling 6393 8161.

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