Each year the Creative Arts Therapy Division at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center hosts a series of events, which includes an art exhibition in observance of Creative Arts Therapy Week.
The purpose of these events is to demonstrate the benefits of utilizing creative arts such as painting, music and dance as a form of therapy for patients receiving treatment for mental illnesses.
Over the last few years, the hospital’s therapists have transformed the main lobby into a beautiful art gallery enjoyed by patients, guests and staff during Creative Arts Therapy Week. The gallery typically showcases the work of patients participating in the program; however, this year, hospital employees from several departments were invited to a workshop where they created their very own works of art for the exhibition. Each piece was vibrant and relayed messages of encouragement and positivity.
The contribution of art from hospital staff was not the only new component to this year’s exhibition, as a nod to the theme for 2017, “Seen and Heard,” live musicians including an acoustic guitarist serenaded guests while they browsed and socialized.
The Creative Arts Therapy Division’s, art exhibit was well-received by the community and hospital staff. Not only was the exhibit a success at Jamaica Hospital it also received positive acclaim at the Queens Museum, where the pieces were later placed on display.
Creative arts therapy encourages self- exploration, helps organize emotions and has a profoundly positive effect on mental well-being. Patients often begin therapy feeling unhappy, conflicted or isolated but by creating art they are able to share their feelings, engage with therapists and begin the process of recovery. It is for these reasons and others that this form of therapy has been an integral part of the Department of Psychiatry at Jamaica Hospital for nearly 20 years.