A symphony of colors and emotions greets visitors at the University Medical Center’s latest exhibition, ‘Five Seasoned Artists.’ The display, part of the Wellness Walls for Art program, features an inspiring collection from Ann Betak, Sue Blackshear, Janet Mego, Chis Metzger, Deborah Hughes, and Ainsley Greer, a University of Arizona (UA) student.
The Wellness Walls for Art: A Beacon of Creativity
Since its inception in 2013, the Wellness Walls for Art program has transformed the medical center into a vibrant gallery. With each new exhibition, the walls breathe life into the spaces, fostering a sense of community and wellness among students, alumni, and local artists.
Deborah Hughes, an alumna of the University and the curator since 2014, explains the significance of art in the healing process. “Art supports health by reducing stress, decreasing treatment duration, lowering blood pressure, accelerating healing, and initiating the joy response,” she says, citing a study by Art for Hospitals.
Ainsley Greer: A Young Talent Rises
Among the seasoned artists, Ainsley Greer, a UA student pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design, stands out with her unique perspective. Currently working as an artist’s assistant to Hughes, Greer’s work, ‘Salvaging,’ is a thought-provoking collection of recycled materials used to contrast waste and valuables.
“I wanted to challenge the perception of value and waste,” Greer shares. “Each piece in ‘Salvaging’ tells a story of transformation, reminding us that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.”
A Tapestry of Emotions: The ‘Five Seasoned Artists’
The ‘Five Seasoned Artists’ exhibition is a testament to the power of art in evoking emotions and sparking conversations. From Betak’s delicate watercolors to Metzger’s bold sculptures, each piece contributes to a tapestry of emotions that resonates with visitors.
As Deborah Hughes puts it, “Art has the power to transcend boundaries and connect us on a deeper level. It’s an essential part of our wellness journey.”
The exhibition is open to visitors Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., until March 29. As you walk through the halls of the University Medical Center, take a moment to immerse yourself in the world of ‘Five Seasoned Artists’ and let the colors and emotions guide your path towards healing and wellness.
In the heart of the University Medical Center, the ‘Five Seasoned Artists’ exhibition continues to inspire and heal. Deborah Hughes, the alumna-turned-curator, and her team of artists have transformed the space into a vibrant gallery, fostering a sense of community and promoting wellness among students, alumni, and local artists.
Ainsley Greer’s ‘Salvaging’ collection, in particular, challenges visitors to rethink their perceptions of value and waste. As part of the Wellness Walls for Art program, this exhibition serves as a reminder of the power of art in supporting health and evoking emotions. The ‘Five Seasoned Artists’ invite you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, one brushstroke at a time.
