Maimonides Medical Center hosts art therapy exhibit from patients
The exhibition is called "Transformation: A Journey of Self-Determination and Grit." For participants like Gloria Colon, transformation means faith.
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Maimonides Medical Center in Borough Park is displaying art in its lobby for participants of its art therapy group.
The exhibition is called "Transformation: A Journey of Self-Determination and Grit." For participants like Gloria Colon, transformation means faith.
“My painting is about Jesus. It’s about faith. Jesus is my strength and anytime I have a problem I go to God. I say a prayer," said Colon.
For George Spinella, a frog symbolizes transformation - including his own.
“You should have seen me when I first came here. I was a little withdrawn. Anybody can transform themselves. They just have to be willing to do it," said Spinella.
Maimonides Medical Center says more than half of Americans will be diagnosed with mental illness in their lifetime. Gwendolyn Kurtz, director of Creative Arts Therapy at Maimonides Medical Center, says art therapy can give words to those who may not be ready or able to use them.
“In art therapy, people are given an opportunity to process, or experiences process, of trauma, reinterpret their stories without relying solely on verbal communication. Verbal communication might not be possible for everyone," said Kurtz.
The art-centered group therapy for patients with a range of mental health conditions.
“I come in upset and anxious and I go there and I am able to relax and unwind. Once I start painting, I am able to let loose and express myself," said Colon.
The art will be displayed in the center's lobby for the next two weeks.
For more information on the program, you can click here.
