The Fall 2024 iteration of the biannual show featured thirty-seven participating artists –

Brooklyn, NY, Dec. 17, 2024 – On Wednesday, November 20, Maimonides Health presented “Lines of Sight,” an art exhibit featuring self-selected artwork created by thirty-seven participants in the Department of Psychiatry’s Art Therapy in the Wellness and Recovery Program & Adult Outpatient Services.

Gwendolyn Kurtz, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist and Director of Therapeutic Activities, curated the 2024 exhibit, which has been held biannually since 2008. While each iteration of the show features a different name, theme, and group of artists, one aspect remains the same: it celebrates the therapeutic benefits of art therapy.

Art therapy is a vital component in psychiatric services because it builds emotional resilience, social skills, and self-confidence while reducing conflicts and distress.

“Individuals who have experienced trauma may struggle to express themselves verbally, as the emotional and psychological effects can interfere with language processing and expression,” said Kurtz. “Art gives patients the opportunity to explore these experiences, emotions, feelings, and relationships, without relying on words.”

“Patients might not be able to talk about what happened to them and what their stresses are,” said Julio Lopez, LCSW, Director of the Wellness Recovery Program at Maimonides Community Mental Health Center. “Art gives them the ability to express themselves through art mediums such as drawing and sculpture, and helps them find their voices so they can stabilize their symptoms and eventually be able to talk in group and individual sessions.”

“This event highlights the diverse artistic opportunities provided by the Therapeutic Activities Department at Maimonides Health’s Department of Psychiatry,” said Abraham M. Taub, DO, Chair Psychiatry, and Vice President of Behavioral Health. “From dance and music to painting and drawing, patients are empowered to express themselves creatively.”

“I applaud the participating artists for courageously sharing their journeys and artwork,” said Deepan Singh, MD, Vice Chair, Ambulatory Psychiatry. “Through artmaking, they can gain valuable insights into their experiences.”

The Fall 2024 iteration featured a wide range of artistic mediums including colored pencils, oil paints, pastels, and mixed media, and sculpture.Through artistic expression, participants took risks and conveyed themes that are important to them, such as family, nature, and femininity.