We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Dame Stephanie Shirley CH, Patron and benefactor of Paintings in Hospitals, on Saturday 9 August 2025.
Dame Stephanie – a pioneering entrepreneur, philanthropist, art collector and autism campaigner – touched countless lives through her generosity, vision and determination to make the world more inclusive. In 2012, she donated 183 works of art from her own collection to Paintings in Hospitals, including works by renowned artists such as Joan Miró, John Piper, Elisabeth Frink, Maggi Hambling and Julian Trevelyan. She strongly believed that high-quality artwork could enrich the lives of people living with autism and their carers. Through the Paintings in Hospitals artwork loan scheme, her donated pieces were made available to facilities supporting those affected by illness, autism and disability.
Dame Stephanie was a great friend, generous funder and advocate of the work of Painting in Hospitals. It was an honour to have her as a Patron of the charity.
Read more about Dame Stephanie’s inspiring life and enduring impact.
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