Connections Through Art at VCU Health

This year marked the 20th annual anniversary National Arts Program exhibit for VCU health. Coordinator Alexis Shockley put on another incredible showcase hanging an astounding 261 pieces of art from 157 participating artists. Alexis commented that installing the exhibit takes so much longer than it normally would because patients, team members, and visitors all stopped to chat and share how much they love the art. They also inquire about purchasing pieces in the show.

Alexis shared a touching story about an older couple who stopped by the exhibition. Six years ago, they were in the hospital while the husband underwent brain surgery for a tumor, and during that time, they purchased a piece from the NAP exhibition. When they later met the artist, she shared that she had recently lost a loved one to brain cancer. The couple described how this unexpected connection through the artwork had meant so much to them. They were thrilled to see the show thriving and were grateful for the opportunity to enjoy it again during a routine checkup.

Another story that a visitor shared was that they had purchased a little piece of pottery by a youth artist. The woman that purchased it was the mother of a patient at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond. She bought the piece as it was done by the child of her daughter’s doctor, and she wanted to have a piece to thank and remember her by.

These meaningful moments show just how deeply art can resonate, sparking connection, joy, and healing in a community. We’re so proud of the talented participants who made this year’s VCU Health National Arts Program exhibition truly unforgettable!