Student Art At Virtua Hospital
About a dozen students from Garfield Park Academy took part in an art show hosted at Virtua Hospital in March. The theme of the show, “I Dream of a World…” invited students to explore our uncertain world in a way that focused on hope and solutions.
“The students’ creativity was truly remarkable as they literally thought outside the (cigar) boxes that housed representations of their dream worlds. Some students joined two boxes or altered the boxes to create their own unique spaces, representing their inner and outer worlds,” said Sheri Roseman, art therapist at GPA.
As other schools are eliminating art programs, Garfield Park Academy’s art therapy program is growing, helping students find their voice, express their feelings, and become more empowered as they are heard on many levels.
According to Roseman, the relationship building and trust that happens in art therapy makes all else possible. Students feel safe and more confident, adding to their sense of well-being and purpose.
“Making art is all about problem-solving which is a higher level thinking skill. These skills translate very well in the real world, as one must navigate social situations and unexpected events,” she added.
Seeing their art in a public space was important and empowering. “By contributing their art to the walls of Virtua, Garfield Park Academy students were able to realize that they have something important to contribute to the community.”
