NYC Gazette

Brooklyn, NY, Dec. 17, 2024 – Maimonides Health recently showcased "Lines of Sight," an art exhibit featuring works by thirty-seven participants from the Department of Psychiatry’s Art Therapy in the Wellness and Recovery Program & Adult Outpatient Services. The exhibit was curated by Gwendolyn Kurtz, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist and Director of Therapeutic Activities. This event has been held biannually since 2008.

Art therapy plays a crucial role in psychiatric services by enhancing emotional resilience, social skills, and self-confidence while reducing conflicts and distress. "Individuals who have experienced trauma may struggle to express themselves verbally," said Kurtz. "Art gives patients the opportunity to explore these experiences, emotions, feelings, and relationships without relying on words."

Julio Lopez, LCSW, Director of the Wellness Recovery Program at Maimonides Community Mental Health Center stated: "Patients might not be able to talk about what happened to them and what their stresses are. Art gives them the ability to express themselves through art mediums such as drawing and sculpture."

Abraham M. Taub, DO, Chair Psychiatry and Vice President of Behavioral Health commented: "This event highlights the diverse artistic opportunities provided by the Therapeutic Activities Department at Maimonides Health’s Department of Psychiatry." He emphasized that patients can express themselves creatively through various forms like dance, music, painting, and drawing.

Deepan Singh, MD, Vice Chair Ambulatory Psychiatry praised the artists: "I applaud the participating artists for courageously sharing their journeys and artwork." He noted that through artmaking participants gain valuable insights into their experiences.

The Fall 2024 exhibit included a variety of artistic mediums such as colored pencils, oil paints, pastels, mixed media, and sculpture. Participants explored themes significant to them including family, nature, and femininity.