Art Loan: A Joyful Celebration of Healing and Inclusiveness

art-therapy-studio-Sue Wall Still Life

To tell the story of the Art Therapy Studio is to share the personal successes of the tens of thousands of individuals who’ve participated in our pioneering therapeutic programs and services over the past 50 years. Our history is intertwined with stories of struggles and triumphs by individuals facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Art Loan, our biennial benefit, gives us the opportunity to share these stories, our legacy, and our vision.

 

Art Loan combines the excitement of an art exhibition with the opportunity for guests to leave with gorgeous works of art from our George Streeter Circulating Collection. Each piece can be rented for up to two years. Art Loan lets our guests beautify their homes and offices and  support the healing power of art therapy.

 

History of the Collection

The George Streeter Circulating Collection comprises artwork by internationally, nationally, and locally acclaimed artists as well as artists who participate in our therapeutic programs. It contained a modest selection of 50-60 pieces when first established in 1977 as part of the Studio’s 10th Anniversary celebration. Clients, volunteers, and hospital staff collectively donated works of art to create the collection named in honor of our co-founder, the late Dr. George Streeter.  The collection was exhibited at Highland View Hospital (now the MetroHealth hospital system) and garnered attention from staff, patients, and visitors alike.  Quite taken by the quality of the patient-created art, the Art Therapy Studio began loaning pieces from the collection in return for a donation…and the “Circulating” Collection was born.

 

As the Collection grew, the Studio decided to tie the concept of “loaning” artwork with a fundraising event.  Today, the Collection has over 200 pieces and is valued at over $100,000. Included in the collection are pieces from renowned artists Salvador Dali, Viktor Shrekengost, and Julian Stanczak, to name a few. In the 20 years that the artwork from the Collection has been available for rent, nearly $200,000 has been raised to support the vital programs and services of our Studio.

 

Celebrate with Us

What started as a tribute to Dr. Streeter has become an event that truly epitomizes our mission, vision, and values.  Art Therapy Studio is dedicated to making certain that art is accessible and meaningful to every client we serve, including those who are unable to participate in traditional community arts programs due to emotional, cognitive, or physical challenges.  The goal of Art Loan is to celebrate the creation of art regardless of perceived limitations.

 

Join us on from 7 – 10 pm Friday, September 23 at the beautiful Shaker Heights Country Club.  In addition to our exhibition and loan event, we will feature a silent auction and, back by popular demand, our #HappyInCle Raffle. Tickets include valet parking, heavy hors d’oeuvres, dessert, and music provided by Will Cheshire.

 

Call the Art Therapy Studio (216) 791-9303 or visit our website for tickets and sponsorship opportunities.

Art Therapy Studio

12200 Fairhill Road

Cleveland, Ohio 44120

arttherapystudio.org

216.791.9303

 

Art Loan Benefit: 7 – 10 pm Friday, September 23 at Shaker Heights Country Club

– Image: “Kitchen Still Life” by Sue Wall, Acrylic on board