Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation is thrilled to announce its participation in ArtPrize this year with a unique and meaningful exhibit. The showcase will feature a 10-foot-tall willow tree, with wooden leaves designed by patients, caregivers and Mary Free Bed team members.
The exhibit, titled “CommuniTree,” will be located inside Silva, as part of CURA, a fully accessible exhibit centered around the connection between art and health. The incorporation of patient-designed elements adds a deeply personal dimension to the artwork.
Participants were given two prompts when designing their leaves: What do you give to the community and what do you need from the community? ArtPrize attendees can look forward to experiencing heartfelt designs of 170 participants.
“This is an opportunity to elevate marginalized voices and offer a space for people to share their needs and contributions. No art experience is required; we simply want to give a voice to lived experiences and create greater accessibility in the arts,” said Mary Free Bed art therapist Libby Smith, who is leading the project.
Art therapy has the unique power to heal, inspire and transform. At Mary Free Bed, art therapy offers patients a creative path to emotional, physical and cognitive recovery. It cultivates emotional resilience, fosters self-esteem, enhances fine motor skills and improves overall well-being. Since art therapy isn’t covered by insurance, it’s funded entirely through philanthropy. The “CommuniTree” project is supported in part by an award from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.
The partnership between Mary Free Bed and ArtPrize is a celebration of art, hope, healing and the power of community. By showcasing the artistic talents of patients, team members and families, the exhibit shines a spotlight on the therapeutic benefits of creative expression and the transformative power of art within health care and rehabilitation.
The public is invited to see the “CommuniTree” exhibit during the opening event on Thursday, September 17, from 6–8 p.m. ArtPrize attendees can then view the piece from Friday, September 18, through Saturday, October 3. The tree will be located in Silva’s parking garage, directly off Ottawa Ave NW. Gallery viewing hours are Monday–Saturday from 12–8 p.m. and Sunday from 12–6 p.m.
