Arts Chair, Patricia Mitrano, Speaks on the Topic of Arts in Medicine at Art Reception for Reimagining Pain Through Art in Maplewood, NJ
Closing reception: October 13th, 2024
The closing reception occurred at the 1978 Arts Center in Maplewood, New Jersey. This show was sponsored by the Maplewood Division of Arts and Culture and Pathways to Trust. This was a noteworthy event celebrating the power of art as a therapeutic medium and a form of resilience amidst adversity. Many have come to realize the profound impact art can have on healing and well-being. Integrating art into healthcare offers a powerful way to enhance both physical and mental well-being.
The West Orange Arts Council Chair, Patricia Mitrano, was invited by Pathways to Trust Executive Director Cheryl Lloyd to speak at the closing event reception. Mitrano, who is also Director of PR & Marketing at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and has coordinated an Employee Art Exhibit for ten years, shared how her experience changed during COVID. She said, “I found that during the pandemic more of my colleagues were reaching out to tell me they started painting/collaging/art making to relieve the stress and planned to participate. They were thankful to have the arts to take their minds to a different place even for a brief moment.”
These conversations about the connection between arts and well-being inspired Mitrano to learn more about the benefits of engaging in art not only for enjoyment but for health and she enrolled and in 2022 completed the Center for Arts in Medicine Graduate Certificate Program at the Center for Arts in Medicine at the University of Florida College of the Arts.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS OF THE ART SHOW REIMAGINING PAIN THROUGH ART MAPLEWOOD, NJ
CLICK HERE FOR MORE VIDEO OF THE ART SHOW REIMAGINING PAIN THROUGH ART MAPLEWOOD, NJ
Using Art to Express Oneself
Arts in health as an academic discipline is not to be confused with creative arts therapies, with art therapists, dance therapists, drama therapists, and music therapists who are mental health and counseling professionals. Arts in health is more about transforming the healthcare experience using forms of creative expression. “Who doesn’t love pausing to enjoy art, relieve some stress & uplift spirits – whether you have a chronic condition, rare disease, or regular pressures from life?” asked Mitrano.
Lowering Anxiety and Stress through Art
Hospital stays can be stressful, but engaging with art can help alleviate that tension. Research shows that both creating and viewing art can reduce anxiety. People can be more at ease when they feel in environments that incorporate art or even just beautiful artwork. Ms. Mitrano said, “We’ve taken important steps to integrate art into our healing environment. I’ve mentioned the Employee Art Show, we’ve also worked with local photographers to install nostalgic Newark photos on senior patient units. Now NJPAC is our arts partner, and each month, we have musicians in our Lobby, along with artists painting with our pediatric patients and a guitarist taking special requests for Taylor Swift tunes at their bedside. The intersection of arts and health is gaining momentum, and I’m so excited about what is happening in this space.” Art serves as a vital therapeutic aid, contributing to a calming atmosphere that supports recovery.
Improving Well-Being through Art Activities
Patricia Mitrano also said “With current technologies, it’s possible to study the brain signals and regions activated when enjoying or participating in art activities. The research from the National Institutes of Health, National Endowment for the Arts, and many more indicate that “creative expression activates the brain’s reward system, releasing feel-good chemicals like dopamine,” which can significantly enhance overall health.
Using Art helps with Foster Social Connections
Another incredible aspect of art is its ability to bring people together. Collaborative projects and shared experiences can foster support networks and friendships, which are crucial for well-being. Ms. Patricia Mitrano said, “The intersection of arts and health is gaining momentum, and I’m so excited about what is happening in this space. I’ve committed to making an impact, supporting our patients, employees, my community and the work Cheryl Llyod and Maybelle Lincoln are doing at Pathways to Trust.
In Conclusion
The intersection of arts and health has a beautiful synergy. Visual art has the power to heal through emotional expression, stress reduction, social connection, and creating a more welcoming environment. The integration is being explored further, and a significant impact can be made by embracing the arts in healthcare.
As we reflect on this journey, we are reminded that art is essential. Patricia concluded by saying, “The evidence is clear: whether we are creating or appreciating, the arts have profound effects.” By incorporating art into healthcare, we can develop a great approach to healing that nurtures both body and mind.”
If you’re interested in learning more, or getting involved in Arts and Medicine events, feel free to Email Patricia Mitrano by clicking here.
*Videos courtesy of Livingston Steele from Artillery Creative Cannon.