UPDATE: A groundbreaking art therapy program at UCSF Medical Center is providing crucial emotional support to cancer survivors, helping them reclaim their lives through creativity. Participants, including breast cancer survivor Jenni Mork, are finding solace in self-expression as they navigate the challenges of their diagnoses.
Just announced by program leaders, Art for Recovery has become a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with the emotional turmoil of cancer. Mork, who carries the BRCA gene, shared her journey while painting a portrait of her new dog. “A program like this lets you celebrate the wins that a larger society doesn’t see as a win,” she said, fighting back tears.
The emotional impact is profound. Amy Van Cleve, director of Art for Recovery, emphasized the unique approach of the program: “People need a space that they can get back in their skin. If you need to paint your anger, paint your anger. If you need to paint your resiliency, we are there for that too.” This kind of creative outlet is essential for many, allowing them to process their feelings in a supportive environment.
Participants like Nanci Reese, who was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2008, are also finding joy in artistic expression. Reese, whose vision has been affected by treatment, paints colorful scenes from her life, including a self-portrait in Yosemite. “It’s supposed to be me, but it always comes out not looking quite like me,” she joked, underscoring the program’s blend of humor and healing.
The program’s influence extends beyond individual healing. Self-portraits often reflect the journey of cancer patients, evolving from images of warriors to representations of grief and legacy, according to Van Cleve. “You’re either transitioning to the rest of your life after cancer or you’re transitioning into hospice and making peace,” she explained.
The seriousness of cancer is ever-present in the studio, where portraits of past participants who lost their battles hang nearby. At the end of each session, participants gather to share their creations and experiences, fostering a deep sense of community and understanding. “It’s a space where people get to hold up what they made and tell their story,” Van Cleve noted.
Art for Recovery, which began in 1988 to support AIDS patients, is now making waves at all UCSF medical campuses in San Francisco and the East Bay. The program’s artwork has gained significant recognition, with the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art showcasing pieces from 30 artists, including those who have passed away.
Susana Gershuny, whose life was turned upside down by a breast cancer diagnosis shortly after giving birth, created a unique piece using hair lost during chemotherapy. “I wanted this piece to be about me reclaiming my hair and giving it a higher purpose,” she explained, emphasizing the transformative power of art.
The exhibit continues at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art until Spring 2024, with no ticket required for entry. This initiative highlights how artistic expression can empower individuals, allowing them to confront and articulate their complex emotions.
As the program gains momentum, more cancer survivors are encouraged to participate, finding strength through creativity. The urgency of their journeys resonates deeply, making Art for Recovery not just an art program, but a vital lifeline for many.
