NUMC Unveils Art Installation By Special Needs Artists

Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), a 530-bed tertiary-care teaching hospital that has been the primary source of medical care for millions of Nassau County residents since 1935, unveiled the artwork of differently-abled artists from Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE). This was the first showing of what will be a permanently rotating exhibition of gallery level artworks.  The artists were honored at an installation ceremony and reception, hosted by NUMC and FREE, at NUMC in East Meadow.

“All of us at FREE are thankful to the wonderful folks at NUMC for seeing the massive talent exhibited by our artists,” said Robert S. Budd, CEO, FREE.  “These collaborations with the larger community are incredibly gratifying for our individuals,” he continued.

NUMC and FREE were pleased to announce their collaboration with this art exhibit created by the artists at FREE. This is a permanent rotating exhibit that will be changed quarterly.  The first collection on display is called “The Good Earth”, a collection of multimedia collages, created by individuals with Autism and other Special Needs, participating in Fine Art and Art Therapy programs at FREE.

“I’m thrilled that we are able to provide a space where the work of these inspiring artists can be shown to the public,” said Dr. Victor F. Politi, President and Chief Executive Officer, NUMC.

The Sun, Wind, Rain and Earth are the four elements interpreted by the artists to create their original works of art. Painting combined with multidimensional collage work characterizes the unique depth of spiritual expression presented, with a center portal in each piece intended to channel the light.

The imagery you see reflects Art Therapy interventions first implemented over three years ago. Originally introduced as Chaos and Containment, two separate artistic expressions of the feelings of chaotic emotional turmoil and the subsequent expression of containing this turmoil…. we are now thrilled to share the fourth phase of integration of these two inner states, brought together in one coherent, organized, multidimensional expression reflecting a powerful step on the road towards self-regulation, balance and control. This expression of the consciousness of our artists (and entire world) is channeling the idea of withstanding the incredible depth of anxieties, depression and worry through the Art Therapy intervention and assisting us all in our quest for understanding, hope and peace.

Over the years, much has been written about the power of art for healing and communication, as well as the benefits for individuals who may find it difficult to express their thoughts and feelings through spoken words alone. The images on view are a testament to this power, as FREE’s artists have focused on and touched feelings of safety, trust, understanding and love, creating an opportunity to send their message out into our world.

The art is on display in the Eye Center at NUMC, all are encouraged to view the works and perhaps purchase a piece.  The proceeds of sales go towards supporting the artist and their program.

About NuHealth
NuHealth is a Long Island health care organization delivering essential medical care and disease and lifestyle management to everyone at every stage of life.  Also known as Nassau Health Care Corporation, NuHealth is a public benefit corporation managing the operations of Nassau Medical Center, A. Holly Patterson Extended Care and a network of Family Health Centers that bring primary and specialty care out into the community.  By emphasizing wellness, cultural sensitivity and collaborative efforts with the North Shore-LIJ Health System, NuHealth is working to make good care more affordable and easier to access.

For more information about NuHealth or its Centers of Care, visit www.nuhealth.net.

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