Upcoming events will explore intersection of wellness and the arts
The UK Arts in HealthCare program has teamed up with local arts organization CREATE for "Music in Mind," a series of events that includes a visual art exhibit, musical performance, live art performance and panel discussion that explores the ways in which art affects health and wellness. All events are free and open to the public.
On Friday, Jan. 18, from 5 to 8 p.m., during Lexington's bimonthly Gallery Hop, the event opens with the "Music in Mind" exhibit at First Presbyterian Church on 174 Mill St. Curated by local artist Kathy Rees Johnson, the exhibit features 35 works by Kentucky artists that respond to the theme of music and how it serves to engage, inspire, influence and heal.
At 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., a musical group made up of patients with Parkinson's and their caregiver will perform. The choir is directed by Kentucky Children's Hospital music therapist Amelia Ehmling and local music therapist Laura Cahoon.
From 6 to 7 p.m., UK associate professor of Jazz studies, Raleigh Dailey, will improvise on the piano while Lexington visual artist, Dawn Scripps, paints a live, improvisational work of art in response to the music.
On Saturday, Jan. 19, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, a keynote speaker and an interdisciplinary panel will discuss the many ways music and the arts can impact health and wellness. The keynote speaker is Melissa Rehm, president of the Parkinson's International Foundation. The panel discussion will be led by Jason Akhtarekhavari, UK Arts in HealthCare program manager, and will include:
- Amy Hickman, events coordinator, Parkinson’s Foundation, Louisville/Nashville.
- Amelia Ehmling, KCH music therapist.
- Austin Robinson, Edge Music Therapy.
- Artists who participated in the "Music in Mind" exhibit.
For more information, email Jason Akhtarekhavari or call 859-323-9896.
