Natalie adorns all sides of her mannequins with tactile surfaces using modelling paste, gesso and found objects. At first glance her exquisite composites made with utilitarian parts — such as coins, chains, fabric, buttons and other humble items — appeal to us for their aesthetic value alone; however, we learn they also ignite powerful emotional reactions.

Natalie unearths a treasure trove of poignant messages with profound impact. Her highly-charged sculptures represent a unique archetype and expand our conscious awareness about the environment, female issues, relationships, diversity, and other complexities about our life choices and experiences.

Objects such as scissors, buckles, and bolts that she adheres to the sensual torsos arouse associations with abrasion, separation, pain and loss. Items such as zippers and locks may signify feelings about unresolved issues. Thoughts of unfulfilled desires, unspoken words, and unfinished deeds from the past that we may have buried and locked away rise to the surface.

We identify with Natalie’s forms because she resuscitates discarded objects and memorabilia and converts inanimate objects into timeless, universal stories. Her works of art have pulsating hearts and the power to heal. As we succumb to their messages we confront our human frailties, vulnerabilities, flaws and fears. Her sculptures serve as catalysts to embark upon our quest for personal growth and deepen the process of positive transformation.

Visit Natalie Oliphant’s website natalieoliphantart.ca

Read an article that features Natalie in “Creative and Eco-Conscious Artists Who Use Recycled Materials”.

This Art Review was written by Renee Phillips, Director and Curator, Manhattan Arts International and The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS, New York, NY

If you are an artist and would like me to write an Art Review
please visit  “Art Reviews for Artists”

]]> https://www.healing-power-of-art.org/eco-artist-natalie-oliphant-transforms-recycled-materials-into-life-affirming-sculptures/feed/ 0 https://www.healing-power-of-art.org/steevie-jane-parks-unites-the-healing-dynamics-of-colors-and-forms/ https://www.healing-power-of-art.org/steevie-jane-parks-unites-the-healing-dynamics-of-colors-and-forms/#comments Sat, 17 Jun 2023 14:55:41 +0000 https://www.healing-power-of-art.org/?p=27523 Steevie Jane Parks creates awe-inspiring, multi-layered abstract paintings. She is highly proficient in applying the dynamics of color theory and integrates a range of hues with organic and curvilinear elements. Her art combines her many artistic skills with intuition and engages viewers visually and viscerally.

The artist’s background in Clinical Psychology contributes to her profound insight into the science of color and the healing potential it has on our minds and emotions.

Steevie deftly composes varying shapes and forms that evoke spontaneity and sensations of continuity, harmony, and infinite possibilities. She arouses feelings of interconnectedness through rhythmic undulations and circular motifs. Her use of overlapping spatial planes envelop both the microcosm and macrocosm. Tactile brushwork further increases depth and dimension.

The titles of Steevie’s paintings are in perfect alignment with her images and their life-affirming messages. Two examples are “Gratitude” and “Healing”. The soft palette, luminosity and meditative qualities calm the mind and lull us into states of peaceful contemplation.

Steevie’s vibrant painting “Creativity” awakens our inner spirit. Symbolic forms and contrasting colors emphasize dynamism and intensity. The mesmerizing glowing forms conjure visions of stained glass and kaleidoscopes.

Biomorphic elements also enliven many of Steevie’s paintings. However, they transcend their physical details in favor of illuminating their intrinsic essence. Her animated references to patterns from the natural world are often inspired by painting en plein air. Her  use of contoured human forms reflect her innovative interpretation of a developed knowledge of anatomy.

Through her art Steevie brings joyful healing energy and ignites our aspirations to evolve individually and interpersonally. It has been an honor to present her art in “The Healing Power of Color” 2023 and the Manhattan Arts International “HerStory” 2023 juried exhibitions.

Visit Steevie Jane Park’s website steeviejaneparks.com

This Art Review was written by Renee Phillips, Director and Curator, Manhattan Arts International and The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS, New York, NY

Learn About Renee’s Art Reviews for Artists

As we enter Michael’s resplendent world of “Heartscape Paintings” we encounter a unique and diverse range of awe-inspiring subjects — from landscapes, wildlife, figures and portraits to abstractions. His dreamlike perspective and deft use of symbolism and metaphysical elements such as sacred geometry reveal a profound insight into the states of consciousness.

An extraordinary example is “Spiritual Awakening”, shown above. This transcendent painting is a quintessential expression of enlightenment. It was a pleasure to select it and feature it prominently in “The Healing Power of Resilience” and “The Healing Power of Color” juried exhibitions.

As a color virtuoso who uses a highly versatile palette Michael reveals his acute sensitivity to the importance of color balance. His carefully composed canvasses exude a chromatic and tonal harmony and convey a natural fluid rhythm. In addition, his use of tactile swathes of paint and exquisite luminous glazes bring increased depth and dimension to his paintings.

In some of Michael’s paintings we see artistic sparks reminiscent of the Impressionists Monet and Van Gogh. Although Michael is inspired by them, he departs from their traditional stylistic paths and imbues his art with his refreshing contemporary spirit. His distinctive voice resounds with a crescendo of animated hues, brush strokes and forms.

Michael’s joyful exuberance as an artist reminds us that life offers a wellspring of resplendent moments for us to experience and celebrate with gusto and gratitude.

Visit Dr. Michael Durst’s website HeartscapePaintings.com

This Art Review was written by Renee Phillips, Director and Curator, Manhattan Arts International and The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS, New York, NY

If you are an artist and would like me to write an Art Review
please visit  “Art Reviews for Artists” 

The artists featured in this presentation were selected for “The Healing Power of Color” exhibition and also received “Special Recognition Art Awards” for combining their artistic excellence with their spirit of generosity. The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS initiative believes in the importance of recognizing artists who are fostering good will and contributing to positive change in the world.

It is an honor and pleasure to present the art and contributions made by Lynda Goldman,  Andrea Robinson, Agnes Jorgensen and Andre Chatelain. I encourage you to purchase the art by these artists and join their acts of kindness and efforts in helping their chosen charities and organizations.

Lynda Goldman Founder of Art For A Cause

Lynda’s uplifting painting “Joyful Heart” was selected for “The Healing Power of Color” exhibition. When she submitted her entries she wrote “My life as an artist is about sparking joy with color. I paint abstracted flowers because nature provides a horticultural ice cream parlor of saturated colors. I use layers of luminous color, with bold and delicate lines and shapes to portray the essence of flowers. I use acrylics, often adding oil sticks and inks. Big and small brushes, and even twigs from my garden are used to express exuberance and positivity in the delicate dance of colors on canvas.”

With Art for a Cause Lynda strives “to bring joy and beauty to the world.” She shares, “I donate a portion of my art sales from every original painting to causes that support our planet, and women and children in need.” She adds, “From a recent art show, I donated money to a women’s shelter, and several environmental and social justice causes. I love to support moms who can then support their daughters.” Some of the organizations Lynda has aided through sales of her art include: Kiva, which gives micro-loans to new entrepreneurs and students around the world; Habitat for Humanity; Children’s Health Defense; David Suzuki Foundation, EcoJustice, Environmental Defense; and Mercy for Animals; and more.

Lynda recently won the People’s Choice Award in the Artists in Montreal Valentine’s Show.  She has sold her paintings across Canada and the U.S.. She invites you to buy her art for your home or office and “make the world a little better, just as my mother always taught me.”

Visit Lynda Goldman’s website: lyndagoldmanfineart.com

Learn more about Art For A Cause: lyndagoldmanfineart.com/art-for-a-cause-2

Andrea Robinson ~ Helping Conservation Groups and Children

Andrea’s glorious painting “Midnight Garden” is in “The Healing Power of Color” exhibition. She has written “Colour plays a vital part in my paintings. I use analogous and complementary colours placing bright colour with softer tints to express positivity, energy, hope, and joy. Colour has a huge impact on how we feel, and when celebrated in a painting, it can bring a breath of fresh air into a room and uplift and inspire viewers. Colour speaks to my heart and mind and I my aim is to use it to bring happiness to others.”

Andrea is proud of the organizations she supports. They include conservation and nature groups: NZ Forest and Bird, Tranquillity Bird Rescue, Greenpeace and the NZ Nature Fund. The paintings that she sells to raise funds can be found in her collections titled “Celebrating Nature” and “Touch of Whimsy”. She helps KidsCan, a charity that provides food and clothing for children in poverty. She states, “To help this amazing charity 10% of the profits from the sale of the paintings on my page dedicated to them, is being donated.”

Furthermore, Andrea supports local schools with their art fundraisers. “This helps to buy educational resources and much needed sports equipment as well as fix buildings.”

Visit Andrea Robinson’s website:  andrearobinson.co.nz

Read more about her charitable efforts on this page: andrearobinson.co.nz/copy-of-my-work-1

Agnes Jorgensen ~ Cofounder of Painting A New World

When Agnes submitted her inspirational painting “Let Your Light Shine” for “The Healing Power of Color” exhibition she wrote “This painting was created with color in mind to evoke this message: Step into the forest. Take a deep breath. Ground yourself in Mother Nature’s beauty. Observe the sacred moment of being aware in her colourful glory. Enjoy the moment of peace and free yourself from worry to make space for the light to shine through.”

Agnes Jorgensen and Andre Chatelain are a dynamic married couple who share a deeply felt humanitarian spirit, a passion for Africa and its people, and have combined their talents to create Painting A New World. This organization has funded dozens of murals in Kenya, implemented the mural program in Chad where local artists have painted seven murals on schools in N’ Djamena and funded a mural in Haiti at the Notre-Dame de Paillant School. Painting A New World has also had art projects in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Ghana, Malawi and Guinea.

Read an interview with Agnes and Andre, Founders of Painting A New World.

Visit Agnes Jorgensen’s website:  jorgensenart.com

Andre Chatelain ~ Cofounder of Painting A New World

“Home Town” is a magnificent painting by Andre Chatelain that is included in “The Healing Power of Color” exhibition. He submitted this statement to the competition: “For me, the choice of colours, shades and tones is a very powerful tool to reach people hearts and provoking a specific emotion or a special feeling. It also says a lot about me to the viewers. How I choose and apply the colours at any point in time shows how I was feeling when I created each painting. I paint the beauties of the world while sharing the story of my life right there on the canvas.”

The genesis of Agnes’s and Andre’s non-profit organization began on Andre’s first trip to Kenya and Tanzania in 2001. He states, “I was profoundly moved by the African people, their beauty, grace, dignity, pride and so much more. It was this experience that inspired me to paint the people and their culture trying to capture the essence of their being. Fortunately, my travels took me also to Mali and Mauritania further inspiring my artwork.”

Visit Andre Chatelain’s website: andrechatelain.com

Visit the Painting A New World Website: Painting A New World

View Art from “The Healing Power of Color” Exhibition

Agnes Jorgensen and Andre Chatelain are extraordinary artists who have received many accolades for their masterful paintings in realism. They are award-winning members of The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS. The dynamic married couple share a deeply felt humanitarian spirit, a passion for Africa and its people, and have combined their talents to create Painting A New World. The genesis of their non-profit organization began on Andre Chatelain’s first trip to Kenya and Tanzania in 2001. He states, “I was profoundly moved by the African people, their beauty, grace, dignity, pride and so much more. It was this experience that inspired me to paint the people and their culture trying to capture the essence of their being. Fortunately, my travels took me also to Mali and Mauritania further inspiring my artwork.”

In 2008, Agnes accompanied Andre to Kenya where she also fell in love with this continent and its people. That year they founded Painting A New World (PNMW). One of their many proudest achievements is the sale of one auctioned mural in Kenya generated sufficient funds ($15,000 ) to provide a community with a new school and a well of clean water.

In this interview, they share their passion and explain how their organization Painting A New World is making a positive difference in the world. We are proud to know Agnes and Andre and to include them among our ongoing series titled “World Changers”.

Andre and Agnes, what inspired you to create Painting A New World organization?

It was evident to us that we needed to do something significant to help the artists. It was this strong desire, in the spirit of helping artists in Africa that we created our non-profit organization Painting a New World.

“The inception of PNMW is based on love, trust, and generosity. We share the love for the people and the beauties of Africa.”

Please explain the purpose and mission statement of the organization.

We believe that art has the power to create positive change for the benefit and sustainability of communities locally and in developing countries. The organization focuses mainly on supporting artists in Africa and Haiti through a mural art program. The murals must be appropriate to the context of the community and present a socially conscious message. Murals are painted on school walls and/or community centers by local artists. The aim is to create positive change by employing local artists and educating communities about their environment and future.

Who else joins you to carry out your mission?

Joram Mathenge, Executive Director of the Kiangure Springs Environment Initiative ( KSEI ) is our main contact, collaborator and driving force in Kenya. He works with several artists and communities coordinating all mural art projects. PNMW has funded 23 murals in Kenya to date.

Painting A New World has also worked with Pascal, the director of Bobea Art Centre in Nairobi for 10 years selling their African artworks and jewelry to help support the Centre and its artists.

On the Painting a New World Board, we count on five directors and one ambassador. Jane, one of our director and Keisha, our PNMW ambassador, are originally from Kenya. Their knowledge and commitment to help the Kenyan people is an asset on our board. We all share Jane’s vision of one day building a PNMW Art centre on her father’s land in Kenya.

“Our goal as artists is to show that ART has the power to create positive change in communities locally and in developing countries.”

How do you contribute your talents as artists to advance the aspirations of the organization?

Our goal as artists is to show that ART has the power to create positive change in communities locally and in developing countries. We understand the challenges of being an artist even in our country of abundance; one can only imagine how difficult it must be in Africa. Therefore, we created PNMW to dedicate ourselves to helping artists of the African continent.

Painting A New World has funded 23 murals in Kenya, implemented the mural program in Chad where local artists have painted seven murals on schools in N’ Djamena and funded 1 mural in Haiti at the Notre-Dame de Paillant School. Painting A New World has also had art projects in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Ghana, Malawi and Guinea.

What accomplishments are you most proud of achieving since its inception?

Knowing that our actions are making a difference and changing the lives of individuals in parts of the world.

Artists who have created Painting A New World murals have improved their financial status, have been recognized in their communities as leaders for their positive messages and their contribution to education.

The sale of one auctioned mural in Kenya generated sufficient funds ($15,000 ) to provide a community with a new school and a well of clean water.

We created a mural art contest named THE GIFT OF ART, that ran consecutively for three years in schools across Canada. All the funds that were generated from the sale of murals to sponsors were then distributed equally between local charitable organizations and Painting A New World.

Receiving the Humanity Award from the International Fine Arts Academy of Quebec in 2009 recognizing the involvement of artists in a humanitarian cause.

“This experience has taught us that we can make a difference in the world and that we are changing lives. It has made us believe art is indeed a catalyst for positive change.”

How can anyone who is reading this interview help Painting A New World?

Painting A New World is a non-profit organization. In order to help us, anyone can purchase an original artwork from us or they can donate funds. We are grateful for any donation of funds payable to Painting A New World of which 100% goes directly to our mural projects in Africa.

Please provide an example of how Painting A New World has changed people’s lives through the healing power of art.

In Kenya, we had prepared two large canvases to be painted by the students from a small village. As there were no large tables to accommodate the canvas, we placed it on the floor. It was so moving to see all the students on their knees, using a paint brush and paints for the first time. They stayed in that position for 2 hours, laughing, experiencing, sharing, questioning.

When we returned to the group of guests we were travelling with, they were all curious to hear how our day went and what the students had produced. They were so impressed with the beautiful mural, they had decided to auction it that evening. Everyone generously contributed and the total amount was enough to pay for the construction of a new school (classroom) and a well of clean water. This small project changed so many lives including ours. We are so grateful to everyone who made this possible.

To what do you attribute the success and longevity of your organization?

The inception of PNMW is based on love, trust, and generosity. We share the love for the people and the beauties of Africa. We trust and work with compassionate and honest collaborators and artists in Africa who are also committed to giving back to their communities. They make it all possible.

As a non-profit we have the flexibility of being in contact with our artists and directors and more importantly sending 100% of the money directly to them.
Our success is measured by changing lives, one mural at a time.

What is the biggest change this experience has brought to your lives?

This experience has taught us that we can make a difference in the world and that we are changing lives. It has made us believe art is indeed a catalyst for positive change. It has brought us purpose and compassion for others because ‘ALL LIVES MATTER ‘. It has inspired us to paint the beauties of the world, to be generous and grateful for all things big and small.

What advice would you give someone who has a desire to embark on a similar path?

Start NOW. Get involved at any level. Starting a non-profit organization takes an incredible amount of commitment of time, energy, and discipline. It is rewarding but funding can be a challenge. Find out what other non-profit organizations are doing, join them and learn from them. Be patient. Set your goals and stay the course.

What plans do you have for the coming year?

In Kenya, Joram and his team of artists are currently working on an additional mural with PNMW support. Our plan was to have an art event in Manitoba in the fall of 2020 however it has been rescheduled to 2021. The art event is in support of PNMW and Cancercare Manitoba. It is important for us to not only help internationally but also in our own back yard.

Visit Agnes Jorgensen’s page on this website.

Visit Andre Chatelain’s page on this website.

Visit Agnes Jorgensen’s website

Visit Andre Chatelain’s website

Visit the Painting A New World website.

This article is from our series about World Changers — people in the arts who are bringing positive change to the world.

Terri recently announced the creation of her project “A Garden of Gratitude”, a touring exhibition that will travel to Ohio hospitals and the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center, from March 2022 to the Spring of 2023. The exhibition includes 18 glass paintings of “vibrant flowers that symbolize the heart and spirit of our hospital workers”. She explains, “This exhibition is a place for them to heal and replenish their souls — to replace their wounds with healing, anxiety with peace, and fatigue with renewal.”

Terri has invited everyone around the world to participate in this project through a variety of offerings, from sharing your story in a printed journal about someone who has touched your life during the pandemic to sponsoring a glass painting in the exhibition to honor our wounded healers. She states, “This exhibition is an opportunity to come together as a community and thank our hospital workers, those who have sacrificed so much for us during the pandemic.”

When Terri submitted her art for our “Art That Lifts of Spirits” exhibition she wrote, “While in the midst of the fire, the burning desires within us can be silenced. Just as sand is beautifully transformed into glass under fire, we too can be transformed by hope. My glass paintings are created to transform us – to awaken emotions that spark a fire or calm the storm within us.”

To learn more about Terri and her “Garden of Gratitude” exhibition visit her website terrialbanese.com/a-garden-of-gratitude

Marie is a champion for positive change and deserves to receive this special award and international exposure on The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS website. She shares our important mission and declares, “I believe art can touch people in ways scientific data cannot. I want my work to inform the viewer and inspire them to join the healing journey of alternative thinking, speaking out and joining others in collective action to foster change.”

She proclaims, “My creative practice is driven by a deep social conscience and sense of personal responsibility. We can all do something — my something is raising awareness of what is being done and how people can get involved. I want my work to inspire hope and empower the viewer by visually articulating the issues in a way that is accessible to the public and contributes to a shift in climate change conversations.”

We are also proud to include Marie in our ongoing series about “World Changers”.

Marie combines a lifelong passion for nature with her love of the tactile and textural nature of fabric. About her artistic approach she states, “I combine unique fabrics with a variety of upcycled materials to create paintings from fabric and thread. I carefully secure tiny scraps of fabrics with free motion contemporary machine embroidery to create complexity and interest. Delicate shadows resulting from suspended stitched layers represent the delicate, ephemeral qualities found in nature.”

Her artworks have been exhibited nationally and internationally and are held in private collections in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom and United States. Marie’s art can also be seen on the  Earth Arts website. The Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA) is a national not-for-profit organization whose mission is “to increase the understanding and practical implementation of Earth centred governance in Australia, with a focus on law, economics, education, ethics and the arts.”

Marie also supports conservation advocacy by donating a portion of all proceeds to national non-profit environmental organizations.

Marie’s mixed media artwork “Fragile Skin II”, shown above, was included in the 10th International Mini Textile Art Exhibition “Scythia” at Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Art Museum in the Ukraine.

When Marie submitted her entry to “The Healing Power of ART: Resilience” exhibition she shared, “Since I am hard-wired to communicate visually, creating is a necessity like breathing, providing me with the resilience to adapt to adversity and learn from life’s experiences. Creating art that reflects my values, provides me with the courage and strength to share my imagery.”

Shown here is “Aftermath”, fabrics, acrylic paint and polyester embroidery thread, 33″ x 18″, from Marie’s “In Remembrance” series which she describes as “both a tribute and warning”.

About her “In Remembrance” series she wrote, “As the catastrophic fire events increased in frequency across Australia, I began this series as a memorial to the hardworking firefighters, the residents who lost their homes or towns and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. It is also a memorial for the countless animal lives and habitats lost pushing many to the edge of extinction.”

Marie reminds us our need to address the problem of climate change and emphasizes that it is causing “an increase in the extreme weather resulting in these events.” She asserts, “With collective action, there is still time to make a difference, by insisting that our government reduce emissions in line with global targets to reduce future risk.”

Above, Marie is working on her large and impressive work of art “On The Brink”. You can watch a video of her work in progress and see some of the steps she used to create this piece on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=2oqaR_a2hnQ

Visit Marie Mitchell’s website: mariemitchellart.com

Join Marie Mitchell on Social Media
Instagram.com/mariemitchellart/?hl=en
Facebook.com/mariemitchellartist

View Art from “The Healing Power of ART: Resilience 2022″ Exhibition

Visit “Special Recognition Art Award Winners” Page

It is an honor to present this interview with Debbie Crouch, Founder of Creative Wellness Journey. Debbie’s generous humanistic contributions and tireless commitment to help others are admirable. We are delighted to add her to our community and our ongoing series of “World Changers”.

Creative Wellness Journey CIC, creativewellnessjourney.co.uk, is a non-profit organization based in the U.K. It provides “a safe environment to learn how to express emotions through creativity, works with other communities to develop working alliances and partnerships, and develops online courses and materials for art for wellness.” You will find links to her online groups at the end of the interview.

RP: Debbie, what is the mission statement of your organization?

DC: Creativity for Joy and Health… Creative wellness aims to share ideas for learning how to be creative for people to support mental wellness through easy online tutorials and downloadable resources.

RP: When and how did you establish the organization?

DC: In March 2020 it began with an idea to set up a private group on Facebook for members to be in a safe space to share their creativity and get to know new people with the same passion for art for wellness.

RP: What inspired you to create such a meaningful and healing organization?

DC: In finding my own path to wellbeing through learning to draw and paint as an adult I became passionate about wanting to share with others what I have learned along the way.

RP: Please tell us about your art.

DC: In discovering my own preference and style my own art work is expressive, colorful mainly impressionist and abstract.

RP: To what do you attribute the success of your organization?

DC: In providing an online safe environment for people to discuss creativity, share their work and make new friends. This enabled communities to come together and share their love of all things creative. Over time this builds loyalty, trust and openness of its members who feel they can interact with others, share their own work, give and receive feedback. Creating a beautiful space for everyone.

RP: Please describe one of the many examples of how you have observed your organization has helped others in need.

DC: One example was an elderly man suffering from depression after loosing his wife joined and became a member to learn and share his creativity. This is what he said: “My friends tell me how lucky I am to have found such a place in my old age. In finding creative wellness group giving me a new lease of life. Thank you from all my heart. Giving me the confidence to (1) start painting (2) getting me off my bum, and getting people to talk to each other.”

RP: How did your activities change as a result of COVID?

DC: If anything the group started just before March 2020 and came at the right time to help and support people learning creativity in their homes.

RP: How can interested individuals join Creative Wellness Journey?

DC: That’s easy. All you have to do is register as a member at creativewellnessjourney.co.uk where you will receive exclusive special offers and newsletters for members.

RP: What is your proudest achievement since you launched the organization?

DC: In growing a group to over 10,000 members in less than 12 months it is very rewarding to know how many people’s lives we help along the way. Receiving testimonials and feedback from members always makes me feel a sense of pride and achievement. For example: “Debbie Crouch is an enthusiastic person who enthuses her students without even knowing that she is doing it… A mentor. A giver of ideas…”

Also, having the confidence to enter a competition in my local art gallery and being selected to showcase my work was a massive achievement I could have only dreamed of.

Visit the Creative Wellness Journey website: creativewellnessjourney.co.uk

Join Debbie in Social Media
Instagram.com/creativewellnessjourney
Facebook.com/groups/creativewellnessjourneyCIC
Facebook.com/creativementalhealthcupport
Twitter.com/creative4488

Art has the power to transform, in a positive way, people and places that have been destroyed, decimated and are filled with sorrow. Artists can help those who suffer recover a sense of self-identity and joy. A shining example of such an artist accomplishing these wonders is Lily Yeh, 74. Through the Barefoot Artists Organization which she founded in 2002, Ms. Yeh travels all over the world and tirelessly brings together people who live in such despairing environments into a dance of art. She is one of our favorite world changers.

In our recent conversation Ms. Yeh explained to me, it is “like making fire in the frozen darkness of the winter’s night. Through the collaborative action of creating beauty we empower ourselves and others to open the hell gate of slums so that fresh air and sunlight can pour in.”

She engages people in the work of transforming the environment of their communities through beauty and in so doing honors their humanity. Her projects have taken her to a rundown area of Philadelphia; the slums of Nairobi; to a genocide site in Rwanda; the West Bank of Palestine; impoverished communities in Taiwan; a city dump in Korogocho, Kenya and many other places.

In 2002 Lily Yeh won the Arts and Healing Network AHN Award as founder of the Village of Arts and Humanities.

Engaging Local Children in Workshops
Ms. Yeh likes to begin her projects by organizing workshops with the local children and invites them to paint and draw their thoughts. They discover the creative power of art and their enthusiasm reaches out to parents, friends and neighbors — eventually involving entire neighborhoods.

She uses the native resources and teaches skills that incorporate construction, painting, tile making and design. Each project Lily undertakes reflects the needs and artistic culture of that community.

Genocide Memorial Park Project in Rwanda
One project took her to Rwanda (2004-present) where she was invited to design and create the Rugerero Genocide Memorial building. At the time she wondered how she, with little resources, could go there and build the genocide memorial.

“Life beckons and I responded”, she said. What resulted was a beautiful Genocide Memorial Park and a bone chamber for reburial. By involving the local people in the making of this memorial, the grieving survivors in Rwanda felt a sense of peace. The healing process began, and as Ms. Yeh reminds us, art and beauty heal.

“It’s possible to transform the violent energy of our time into a culture of kindness.
 All things are possible through the openness of our mind, the gentleness of our spirit, and the act of understanding and embracing.” ~ Lily Yeh

Mural Painting in The West Bank
Ms. Yeh just returned from her fourth trip to the West Bank, Palestine where she engaged the people of Nablus to help in the painting of a mural on an ancient stone wall. Designed by Robert Shetterly, this mural immediately birthed a long lost feeling of pride and hope.

She also encouraged some of the young despairing men to help brighten up and enliven the spirit of the place by enlisting them in painting rusted iron doors with bright colors. The simple act of bringing bright color to the doorways uplifted everyone in the community.

Another mural was painted in El Akaba — a tiny village situated in the “Section C” of Palestinian territory. The resulting artwork illustrated the longing in the heart of people and supported their sense of identity. “Art helps people to remember that they do not suffer in vain,” she emphasized. The energy created brought some magic and transformed a fragile place into an area of beauty.

“So many artists have such great skill and on their life’s journey they can do so much more to help inspire justice. Listen to the voice in your hearts, be courageous to respond to life’s calling; take creative action which guided by compassion will then lead to transformation”. ~ Lily Yeh

Lily Yeh’s Awakening Creativity Workshops
Lily Yeh has been recognized throughout the world for her Awakening Creativity Workshops which inspires others to use the Barefoot Artists’ methodology to encourage people of all ages to bring, through art, the ideas of sustainability, cultural awareness and community building.

The list of her’s accomplishments is long. She has received many awards, the most recent being the University of Pennsylvania Urban Leadership Award.

When Ms. Yeh gave an address at the People’s State of the Union address at the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture where she is a cabinet member, she stated, “It’s possible to transform the violent energy of our time into a culture of kindness.
 All things are possible through the openness of our mind, the gentleness of our spirit, and the act of understanding and embracing.”

Lily Yeh’s Message to Artists
Ms. Yeh encourages all artists to make a difference. “So many artists have such great skill and on their life’s journey they can do so much more to help inspire justice. Listen to the voice in your hearts, be courageous to respond to life’s calling; take creative action which guided by compassion will then lead to transformation.”

Her work is evidence that we who inhabit our earth can help turn ravaged land into the place of beauty that it once was.

A movie about Lily Yeh and Barefoot Artists Organization has been released. The LA Times wrote: “Poignant look at transformative artist Lily Yeh”. Learn more about it at http://barefootartistmovie.com/

Visit the Barefoot Artists Organization’s website www.barefootartists.org

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Elaine Poggi is a photographer and founder of the Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals and one of our “World Changers”. The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals, Inc., was incorporated as a non-profit organization in the United States in November 2002. The unique mission of the Foundation is “to place large, framed photographs of nature and beautiful places from around the world in hospitals to give comfort and hope to patients and their families, visitors, and caregivers. Studies show that nature art has a beneficial effect on relieving a patient’s stress and anxiety. The photographs are intended to provide color and an atmosphere of compassion where healing is encouraged.”

You can read a previous article about Elaine Poggi “Photographic Art in Hospitals Aids The Healing Process”.

In this interview Elaine highlights some of the Foundation’s many contributions, recent progress, and future plans. Photographers and charitable individuals can learn how they can participate in bringing positive change to the world through the outstanding contributions made by Elaine and the Foundation.

RP: Elaine, how did your parents influence you in becoming an artist with a sense of purpose and bringing positive change to the world?

EP: My parents gave me an appreciation of nature. Growing up on a farm in Southern Illinois, my playmates were our dogs and cats, chickens, steers, and pigs. I drove the tractor at a very young age, helping my father with the corn, wheat, and soy bean harvest. The beauty of the rolling fields of grain was my first experience with landscape art which I love to photograph today.

RP: What has been the most remarkable achievement of The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals, Inc. to date?

EP: Our most remarkable achievement to date is that in these past 18 years we have placed more than 8000 nature photos of our more than 365 Contributing Photographers in over 400 healthcare facilities, on all 7 continents!

RP: What is your proudest achievement in 2020?

EP: The inauguration of our more than 50 photos at the Siteman Cancer Center West County in St. Louis, Missouri in February was very emotional for me. The project was in honor of my dear friend, Dr. Jerry Levy, who had been a Board Member since the very beginning of the Foundation. He had passed away 6 months earlier and had been treated at this Cancer Center.

RP: What is your priority goal for 2021?

EP: My goal for 2021 is to place as many photos in as many hospitals as possible around the world.

RP: How many venues and continents have you placed healing photo art? Please name 4-5 hospitals and locations.

EP: Just in these past months I have sent photos to First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei, Anhui, China; Terada Allergy Kodomo Clinic in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan (plus three other hospitals in Japan); Coonamble Hospital in Coonamble Australia; Maimonides Childrens Hospital in Brooklyn NY; Moeller Cancer Center, OSF Healthcare in Alton, Illinois; Coping with Cancer in Cramlington, England.

RP: What is the total number of photographs you have placed throughout the world?

EP: More than 8,000 nature photos.

RP: I read that you have delved into doing research studies about the impact of art and specific types of art on patients. Would you please describe those studies and what did those studies reveal?

EP: The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals relies on the most current research and evidence-based design to develop its projects. We have participated in research studies in Italy and the USA. The largest study, “Beyond traditional treatment… establishing art as therapy,” was conducted in collaboration with the Italian Oncology Group of Clinical Research (GOIRC), coordinated by Prof. Francesco Di Costanzo, director of the Oncology Department of Careggi Hospital in Florence, Italy.

Three cancer centers in Italy – Ancona, Perugia, and Messina – participated in the research. 345 patients from these centers were tested on their perception of the hospital environment before and after the display of Elaine’s nature photos in the treatment rooms of their Cancer Centers. The project was sponsored by Eli Lilly.

Results show that the great majority of patients prefer art on the walls of hospitals, instead of white, sterile walls. The art preferred, in order of preference:
1. Nature landscapes (most popular)
2. Animals
3. Scenes of everyday life
4. Portraits
5. Urban landscapes
6. Abstract (least popular)

The control group’s fiducia (trust or hope) decreased from viewing only white, sterile walls, whereas the experimental group who viewed nature photos for several months, had an increase in fiducia.

RP: How did that study influence the criteria you use for selecting art for a hospital?

EP: I was already convinced from spending time in the hospital with my mother, that nature art is the most effective for creating a hopeful, comforting environment in hospitals.

RP: How many photography-based artists are currently enrolled in your program?

EP: At the moment there are 365 Contributing Photographers.

RP: If photographers want to participate in the Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals and what criteria should artists know before contacting you?

EP: Check out our Contributing Photographer’s Program on our website.

RP: Do the artists donate the actual printed photographs, or do you accept digital files?

EP: Only high resolution digital files.

RP: I understand you have no paid staff so maintaining your Foundation must be financially challenging. How can anyone help to support your foundation?

EP: We are able to send many photos to many hospitals because we keep our costs down as much as possible. We appreciate any amount of donations which can be made through our website.

RP: You have earned the distinction of being one of The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS World Changers. I am also currently working on an ebook about artists as world changers. With that in mind, how would you like to be known now and in perpetuity?

EP: After the loss of my mother, I was able to turn sadness into a beautiful idea… an idea that is bringing light and color to hospitals around the world. I love what I do!

RP: Any advice for someone who wants to make a positive difference by placing art in public venues but doesn’t know where to start?

EP: It’s a good idea to talk to someone you personally know in the public venue. Probably funding is the biggest hurdle to overcome.

RP: What is one of the many favorable comments or testimonials you have received by staff or patients?

EP: We have 239 reviews from patients and their families, hospital staff, contributing photographers, and interns on  which tell the story of our work!

Visit The Foundation for Photo/Art in Hospitals website healingphotoart.org

For artists working in all mediums who are interested in selling their art in the healthcare art market

This comprehensive e-Book “Sell Your Art In The Healthcare Art Market” is available in the Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach ebook shop. Visit the e-book shop and pick up your copy of Sell Your Art in the Healthcare Art Market.

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