ART & HEALTH
I have always been deeply intrigued by Joseph Beuys' concept of the artist as an agent of transformation, particularly his idea of "social sculpture." When I was invited to participate in an artist residency at The Creative Center in 2014, I began reflecting on how I could engage with Beuys' ideas—using action to create sculpture that renders itself invisible.
The notion of using art as a tool for healing is not new; artists like Beuys and Lygia Clark have long explored this idea. In New York, I am also inspired by Mierle Laderman Ukeles, who, as a permanent artist-in-residence at the Department of Sanitation, has cultivated a sense of community and value for sanitation workers.
In my 10 years of experience working in hospitals, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Mount Sinai, and North Central Bronx—primarily with cancer patients, and later with staff—I’ve realized that merely encouraging creativity isn’t enough. Many people feel intimidated by art or don’t see themselves as creative. My challenge, then, is to inspire those who feel burned out and disconnected from their creative potential.
Another significant challenge is the limited time I have. I’m scheduled to visit each site only once a week for six hours, which often feels too brief to make a lasting impact on the hospital staff and patients. Additionally, most of the staff don’t have time off to work with me, and many would likely prefer to use their free time differently. I believe art should never feel imposed.
With this in mind, my intention has been to implement concepts and methodologies that can activate the hospital community—incorporating visuals and performative elements I believe are intrinsic to art practice. From there, I hope to inspire a shift in mindset, encouraging a sense of possibility and creative expression within a challenging environment.
I have always been deeply intrigued by Joseph Beuys' concept of the artist as an agent of transformation, particularly his idea of "social sculpture." When I was invited to participate in an artist residency at The Creative Center in 2014, I began reflecting on how I could engage with Beuys' ideas—using action to create sculpture that renders itself invisible.
The notion of using art as a tool for healing is not new; artists like Beuys and Lygia Clark have long explored this idea. In New York, I am also inspired by Mierle Laderman Ukeles, who, as a permanent artist-in-residence at the Department of Sanitation, has cultivated a sense of community and value for sanitation workers.
In my 10 years of experience working in hospitals, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Mount Sinai, and North Central Bronx—primarily with cancer patients, and later with staff—I’ve realized that merely encouraging creativity isn’t enough. Many people feel intimidated by art or don’t see themselves as creative. My challenge, then, is to inspire those who feel burned out and disconnected from their creative potential.
Another significant challenge is the limited time I have. I’m scheduled to visit each site only once a week for six hours, which often feels too brief to make a lasting impact on the hospital staff and patients. Additionally, most of the staff don’t have time off to work with me, and many would likely prefer to use their free time differently. I believe art should never feel imposed.
With this in mind, my intention has been to implement concepts and methodologies that can activate the hospital community—incorporating visuals and performative elements I believe are intrinsic to art practice. From there, I hope to inspire a shift in mindset, encouraging a sense of possibility and creative expression within a challenging environment.
