Art is a powerful form of communication to me. I look to art to unwind, to meditate, get inspired and to inspire. I had a chance encounter with an artist in my beloved neighborhood of Chelsea, Manhattan, New York City.
On a random weekday evening stroll, I came across this art studio where the installation was still underway. I walked past the window initially and something made me stop in my tracks. Those pieces were colorful, yet unusual and awe inspiring. Did I really see insulin vials amongst the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz?
I went inside. Lucky me, I got to meet the artist in action. He was busy working with his team, getting ready for the launch event the following evening. I was curious. What was all this about? This artist had been living with diabetes for 30 years. He chose to engage in storytelling through multimedia art to articulate his experiences. I was amazed that I could feel his pain and struggle of living with diabetes through his work.
His art introduced me to his experiences with the pharmaceutical industry. I found poetic beauty in his pieces – they were heartwarming and heart wrenching at the same time. I spent some time listening to his stories and trying to understand some of his pieces. He is amongst the few that has witnessed the progression of diabetes into the 21st century. His art expresses feelings, experiences and nuances that are simply not expressed in mainstream media
This is exactly why we need art. To inspire, fill us with awe and make us appreciate the finer things in life. More importantly, it is to educate us and to empower us to make this world a better place. What can’t be denied is the powerful tool of art as a storytelling medium.
What does art mean to you? Is it something you last encountered in school? What does it mean to you now, as an adult? Perhaps, a luxury reserved for the privileged? Or a Sunday evening that involves walking through art galleries in order to unwind
When you encounter a beautiful piece of art that speaks to you, what does it make you feel?
And what will you do about it?
Dr. Sonali Mantoo is an ICU doctor who believes in using art for healing, whether that is for patients or for clinicians. She is part of the Wabi Sabi Health Foundation team.
These paintings are hers.