Art can lift the heart and is playing an important part in the feel-good factor of modern hospitals.

Now an appeal is under way for funds to brighten up the walls and grounds of Cromer's new �15m hospital currently taking shape in the town.

Sculpture, paintings, photography and poetry will be sprinkled across the complex involving local professional and student artists.

A variety show at the pier on March 19 is the first major fund-raising event as organisers seek to raise �20,000 to kick start the work in time for the hospital's opening in autumn 2012.

Emma Jarvis, who co-ordinates art at the unit's 'mother ship' the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, said art had a range of benefits from making people calmer, more comfortable and less stressed, to helping them find their way around and giving the complex a sense of identity.

The Cromer arts scheme picks up on a its seaside setting, and includes a sea-themed mural.

Plans include a large art construction in the grounds, along with works reflecting the area's history - and include some vibrant floral pictures donated by local millionairess Sagle Bernstein in the �11m will which also paid for the rebuild.

The new kidney dialysis unit has floral images worked into its ceilings, as the art project puts an early stamp on the rebuild.

Students from high schools at Cromer, Sheringham and North Walsham and Gresham's at Holt were involved in working with an artist to design a piece of work, said Miss Jarvis.

At the N&N art ranged from a major leafy construction in the atrium to small scale paintings around the corridors, where combining displays with infection control was important.

'Art is important but it must be right for the setting. It is not a gallery,' she added.

Cromer would be different to Norwich and it was a 'long term project'.

The Variety show at Cromer Pier Pavilion on March 19 at 7.30pm features comedy, dance, music and magic. It is compered by Olly Day and acts include Keith Skipper, Elvis and the Bluesueders, blues soul and jazz group the Stihlhouettes, Norfolk string quartet Fame, and youngsters from Marlene's School of Dance. Tickets are �14.50 (�13.50 concessions) from the box office on 01263 512495.

A fashion show is also being planned at the Mundesley Manor hotel on June 10.

For more information about the arts project call 01603 287870, or email emma.jarvis@nnuh.nhs.uk or visit http://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/arts/