Art Therapy Program Empowers Cancer Survivors at UCSF Now

URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking art therapy program at UCSF Medical Center is transforming the lives of cancer survivors. The Art for Recovery program is currently empowering individuals to cope with the emotional trauma of their diagnoses through creative expression, with participants like Jenni Mork sharing their powerful stories.

Just moments ago, Mork, a breast cancer survivor, painted a portrait of her new dog at a communal table filled with fellow survivors. “I am making my first drawing of our new family relationship,” Mork said, tears in her eyes. She emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “Having cancer, I never had children, and having this opportunity to have this dog is really wonderful.”

This innovative initiative, which began in 1988 as therapy for AIDS patients, is now offered at all UCSF medical campuses in the Bay Area. It provides a supportive environment for individuals grappling with the complexities of cancer, allowing them to channel their emotions into art.

Amy Van Cleve, Director of Art for Recovery, explains that typical art therapy often falls short during treatment because patients are still processing their diagnosis. “People need a space that they can get back in their skin,” Van Cleve said. “If you need to paint your anger, paint your anger. If you need to paint your resiliency, we are there for that too.”

Participants create self-portraits and other forms of expression that reflect their journeys. Nanci Reese, diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2008, shared her own experience. “I started doing like Monet,” she said, noting that her oxygen therapy affects her vision. “I could not see, but that is okay.”

Each session culminates in a group check-in, providing a space for participants to share their creations and personal stories. Van Cleve noted the significance of this moment: “They can say, ‘I’m going into hospice, I have six months to live.’ We’re just present with them.”

The program’s impact is gaining wider recognition. This month, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art opened an exhibit featuring works from 30 artists, including pieces created by participants who have since passed away. One such artist, Susana Gershuny, used hair lost during chemotherapy to create a meaningful piece. “I wanted this piece to be about me reclaiming my hair and giving it a higher purpose,” she explained.

The ongoing exhibit at the museum, which requires no tickets for entry, showcases the resilience and creativity of those affected by cancer. It runs until Spring, making it an urgent opportunity for the public to engage with these powerful stories.

As the Art for Recovery program continues to grow, it offers a vital lifeline for those facing the devastating realities of cancer. The movement not only allows participants to express their emotions but also fosters a unique sense of community and support among survivors.

For anyone affected by cancer or looking to understand the profound impact of creative therapy, this program is a beacon of hope. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring initiative and the lives it continues to change.