I believe that art has great power to heal and uplift mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and even aid in physical healing. I have held this view for many years.
Recently, I read that a variety of studies on the healing impact of art on patients consistently finds that certain types of art "... decreases anxiety, lowers blood pressure and contributes to wellness in concrete and measurable ways."
The statement was part of the prospectus for "Inspired to Heal: A Jurored Fine Art Collection for the Calaway and Young Cancer Center at Valley View Hospital".
The concept behind the fine art collection is fabulous. The new cancer center is seeking to enhance patients' care and healing with carefully chosen artwork - artwork that contributes to an atmosphere of inspiration, comfort, and upliftment for the patients and their families.
The method of selecting the artwork is also fabulous and quite unique. A juried exhibit at the Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts (Glenwood Springs, Colorado) will showcase art which meets the guidelines for "healing art". During the Patrons' Night on June 8, 2012 artwork will be purchased by donors and donated to the cancer center. Plaques will hang adjacent to the paintings with both the donors' and artists' names.
But, of course, most important is the healing power the art will have. It will serve the patients' and their families in ways that nothing else can. Art is an unspoken language that communicates to the soul. Uplifting and peaceful art speaks words of optimism, peace, and consolation. This is particularly needed during the difficult and trying times of battling cancer.
This is a concept and cause that I believe in whole-heartedly. I have submitted 2 paintings for the jurying process. I'll keep you posted.
If this concept intrigues you, read more here, or go to the Valley View Hospital news page and scroll down to "Inspired to Heal".
Those of you who wish to also submit artwork, hurry, the deadline is Tuesday, April, 24, 2012. Make sure you read the guidelines before entering.
