A Creative Outlet for Cancer Patients, Family Members, and Staff

More information: 212-263-8043

The Artist-in-Residence Program, a unique program of The Creative Center, Arts for People with Cancer, is housed at both NYU Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital Center. Each center has an artist who works bedside and in small group settings with patients, family members, and staff in the inpatient and outpatient units.

The Artist-in-Residence Program engages patients and helps them express themselves creatively through drawing, painting, and collage-making. Patients who do not feel well enough to participate may direct the artist in creating a piece of work. Visitors and family members are encouraged to participate.

The program offers a multitude of benefits:

• relief from anxiety
• distraction from pain
• respite from boredom
• a safe outlet for emotions
• extended contact and communication with hospital staff

Program History

NYU Medical Center Artist-in-Residence Program
The Artist-in-Residence Program at NYU Medical Center began in 2001 and expanded to include the Clinical Cancer Center in 2004. The program is a collaboration of:

• NYU Cancer Institute
• NYU Department of Therapeutic Recreation, Child Life & Creative Arts Therapies at NYU Medical Center
• The Creative Center, Arts for People with Cancer

Bellevue Hospital Center Artist-in-Residence Program
The Artist-in-Residence Program at Bellevue Hospital Center began in 2003 and expanded to include the Bellevue Cancer Center in 2006.

The program at Bellevue, is a collaboration of:

• NYU Cancer Institute
• Bellevue Hospital Center Department of Nursing
• The Creative Center, Arts for People with Cancer

The Bellevue Artist-in-Residence Program has grown rapidly since its inception, serving over 570 patients, family members, and staff participants in 2006.