Mark-1 // The world's first whole body MRI Scanner

Grampian Hospitals Art Trust Grampian Hospitals Art Trust (GHAT) exists to make our hospitals as visually attractive, interesting and comforting as they can be, for the benefit and wellbeing of all, whether patients, visitors or staff. The opportunity to display the original Mark-1 MRI scanner in The Suttie Arts Space is very much part of this mission and we are delighted that the project has come together with the help of our partners NHS Grampian and the University of Aberdeen. Some may think it is odd to display a piece of technology in an art gallery, but the Mark-1 is more than just technology. It represents a major milestone in scientific achievement, and a huge step forward in the delivery of healthcare worldwide. In addition to the hard science, there is art in the images it produced and there is art in its magnificent Heath Robinsonesque construction. The story of the development of the Mark-1 scanner is told in the accompanying film and paints a very human picture of achievement – brilliant minds, teamwork and humanity all came together to change the world of medicine forever. And all this happened right here in Aberdeen! We at GHAT are very proud to be able to display the Mark-1 MRI machine and we hope that it will thrill and inspire all who see it.

Professor Hamish McKenzie Chairman GHAT