The Healing Power of Art
Amari, 14, refuses to let his autism diagnosis stand in the way of bringing happiness to people with his paintings. His passion and talent are now on display at the Children’s National Hospital main campus for hundreds of patients, families and staff to enjoy every day.
The display is Amari’s first gallery exhibit. His family says it's extra special that the gallery is at Children's National because he used to be a patient there.
Greg Scott, gallery curator at Children’s National, is always on the lookout for new artists. A News4 TV segment about Amari caught his attention, and he reached out to the young artist. They worked together to select the pieces for the show.
“It’s so special to be able to highlight the work of a young, local talent like Amari — especially because he’s a former patient,” says Greg. “Art exhibits are just one aspect of how our Therapeutic Arts program enhances the patient experience.”
Creative and Therapeutic Arts Services began at Children’s National in 1978. Today, art therapy and music therapy are essential parts of a patient’s journey through our Child Life and Integrative Care Services Department. A variety of performers also bring interactive events and activities to the Costco Wholesale Atrium and patients’ bedsides throughout the year.
“Whether you’re an artist or enjoying the work of someone else, art has demonstrated a powerful ability to help the healing process,” says Greg. “Now, Amari can be a part of that journey for other patients and their families.”
The teen’s vibrant work is on display at the hospital until October 1, 2021. It can be found in the Young Expressions Gallery near the 2nd floor auditorium.
To learn how you can support Creative and Therapeutic Arts and Children’s National, contact Melissa Lazarus at [email protected] or 301-244-6238.
The display is Amari’s first gallery exhibit. His family says it's extra special that the gallery is at Children's National because he used to be a patient there.
Greg Scott, gallery curator at Children’s National, is always on the lookout for new artists. A News4 TV segment about Amari caught his attention, and he reached out to the young artist. They worked together to select the pieces for the show.
“It’s so special to be able to highlight the work of a young, local talent like Amari — especially because he’s a former patient,” says Greg. “Art exhibits are just one aspect of how our Therapeutic Arts program enhances the patient experience.”
Creative and Therapeutic Arts Services began at Children’s National in 1978. Today, art therapy and music therapy are essential parts of a patient’s journey through our Child Life and Integrative Care Services Department. A variety of performers also bring interactive events and activities to the Costco Wholesale Atrium and patients’ bedsides throughout the year.
“Whether you’re an artist or enjoying the work of someone else, art has demonstrated a powerful ability to help the healing process,” says Greg. “Now, Amari can be a part of that journey for other patients and their families.”
The teen’s vibrant work is on display at the hospital until October 1, 2021. It can be found in the Young Expressions Gallery near the 2nd floor auditorium.
To learn how you can support Creative and Therapeutic Arts and Children’s National, contact Melissa Lazarus at [email protected] or 301-244-6238.
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