Art with a Heart in Healthcare

The Power Within

September 15, 2024 – January 12, 2025

Works from the exhibition Art with a Heart in Healthcare: The Power Within
oneColumn

At Wolfson Children's Hospital, the Artists-in-Residence from Art with a Heart in Healthcare presented a thought-provoking question to pediatric patients, "What powers lie within you?" This question prompted the young patients to reflect on the qualities, strengths, and abilities that shape who they are. Inspired by this introspection, the children creatively depicted their unique characteristics by designing a superhero version of themselves. Research suggests that recognizing and leveraging inner strengths, much like superpowers, can foster personal development and confidence. As a result, this project played a role in improving the patients' hospital stay, healing process, and overall well-being. 

2024 ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE
Dylan Bauer, Bob Drost, Heidi Drost, Kianna Godoy, Evan Guttormson, Jaycee Guttormson, Amy Irizarry, Brooke McKinney, Lisa Miyares, Jill Olmo, Matt Richards, Abigail Santos, and Micaela Yates

 

Sponsored by the Florida Blue Foundation. This exhibition is organized by Art with a Heart in Healthcare in collaboration with MOCA Jacksonville. Support for this exhibition was made in part by the City of Jacksonville, the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, and the University of North Florida. 

 

Patients

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Ashly

At 12 years old, Ashly truly personifies the idea that "La Sonrisa es un Lenguaje Universal" — a smile is indeed a universal language. Her diverse hobbies range from sports including karate, basketball, soccer, and track, to creative pursuits such as baking, painting, and exploring the magical world of Harry Potter. What sets Ashly apart is her talent for spreading joy wherever she goes. She believes her superpower lies in the simple, yet powerful act of smiling. Ashley makes an effort to make everyone feel welcomed, especially new students feeling lost due to struggling with language barriers. Her story is a beautiful reminder of how something as small as a warm smile or friendly wave can make a significant impact on someone’s day.

Ashly; age 12; La Sonrisa es un Lenguaje Universal

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Avett

In the world of “Super Avett Flash,” a mighty superhero with electric paint powers, kindness and creativity reign supreme. Possessing the power of flight and incredible strength, Super Avett Flash soars across the universe, rescuing ships by carrying them over treacherous reefs before they crash and sink. Throughout these missions, Super Avett Flash uses his electric paint to fill the sky with vibrant colors that bring joy and hope to all. Thanks to Super Avett Flash, the world is now free from car-stealing space invaders, ensuring the safety of his loved ones and their belongings. Committed to his community and family, Avett exemplifies the essence of a superhero in real-life, dedicating himself to humanitarian deeds through his church. When the cape comes off and the electric paintbrush is set aside, Avett enjoys video games, soccer, and art.

Avett; age 5; Shark Reef Island

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Ayden

Ayden, described as a creative and kindhearted person, is a unique blend of a gamer, Godzilla enthusiast, and a loyal Cub Scout. His real-life superpowers are far more extraordinary than one might expect. He possesses the competence to exhibit care and consideration with ease, demonstrating on a daily basis what it means to be a devoted friend. Adopting the persona of "Captain Ayden," he possesses telepathic abilities akin to Professor X, using the power of his mind to spread positivity, exude kindness, and pass on innovative ideas. By sharing his superpowers with the world, he hopes to influence others to follow suit and create a better tomorrow. Captain Ayden epitomizes a true superhero, leading by example and making the world a more peaceful place for all.

Ayden; age 8; Untitled

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Casie

In the bustling classroom, amidst the lively chatter of students, “Casie the Hero” stands out as a guiding light. With her trusty cape fluttering behind her, she effortlessly solves complex math problems, her mind working at lightning speed like a human calculator. As she hovers in the air, Casie the Hero amazes her classmates as they admire her unique proclivity to combine her love for art, math, and science with her passion for helping others. With a quick wit and a contagious sense of humor, Casie the Hero lightens the mood in the room, making everyone laugh with her clever jokes. You can always count on Casie to be trustworthy and help look after her younger brother, proving to be an authentic hero both in and out of the classroom.

Casie; age 10; Casie’s Super Classroom

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Charlotte

Charlotte enjoys various hobbies such as creating art, swimming at the splash park, and reading her favorite book series Junie B. Jones. Taking inspiration from the movie "Wolf Walkers," Charlotte looks up to Mebh, a character she admires for her commitment to standing up for her beliefs and defending the vulnerable. In her artistic realm, Charlotte transforms into "Hazel the Wolf Guardian," mirroring Mebh's fearless nature by becoming a protector of the mystical creatures residing in a flourishing forest. Using her creative talent, she designs dens for wolf packs and devises ingenious strategies to ensure the safety of all animals. Charlotte's story showcases compassion, creativity, and bravery, highlighting the spectacular impact of imagination and its endless possibilities.

Charlotte; age 7; Untitled

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Chiara

Chiara is an impressive individual with a passion for reading. In her artistic endeavors, Chiara's imagination knows no bounds. She envisions a universe where her ideas materialize, drawing inspiration from the enchanting environments of her beloved books. Immersed in series such as Percy Jackson and Wings of Fire, the characters and landscapes spring to life around her, blurring the lines between fiction and reality in a mesmerizing display of creativity. By blending all her favorite books into a fantasy world painted with her preferred colors, she constructs a realm where her limitless imagination flourishes, bringing forth a multitude of creative concepts and whimsical ideas. Chiara encapsulates the infinite potential that unfolds when we embrace our creativity.

Chiara; age 13; Untitled

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Darrious

Darrious consistently demonstrates bravery, loyalty, wisdom, resilience, creativity, generosity, and empathy in his everyday life. At Gemini Island, Darrious, also known as "MVP Culture," diligently defends all visitors seeking spiritual healing, guidance, and comfort much like Batman protects Gotham City. MVP Culture possesses the power to replicate himself, allowing him to assist several individuals simultaneously in different locations. The island itself, adorned with the shining Gemini sign, acts as a haven for those in need of support during their quest for enlightenment. Among the array of symbols present, a crab in water for Cancer, a scorpion in sand symbolizing Scorpio, and a fish leaping out of water represent Pisces, affectionately remind MVP Culture of his loved ones and their astrological connections.

Darrious; age 17; MVP Island

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Jordan

Inspired by her fascination with astrology, Jordan's alter ego, "Aries," is a force to be reckoned with in the extraterrestrial realm. Aries skillfully maneuvers through space using her unearthly gifts, adept at arranging constellations to send vital messages to Earth with a single sweep of her cosmic brush. Teaming up with fellow superheroes, Aries is committed to protecting the planet from any potential threats. Reflecting Aries' spirit, Jordan embodies traits such as determination, a blend of practical and academic intelligence, open-mindedness, and a delightful sense of humor evident in her well-timed jokes and wit. Apart from her astrological adventures, she spends her time caring for her pet rabbit, running, and refining her techniques in cosmetology.

Jordan; age 16; What About the Stars?

Patients

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Josiah

"Shadow Sketcher," a skilled artist with a touch of magic, seeks solace and inspiration in the comfort of his room. Surrounded by his cherished possessions, each item whispers tales of creativity and imagination, igniting his artistic spirit. With a swift motion of his pen, his creations leap from the paper, alive with vivacious energy that promotes peace and harmony around the world. Similar to Shadow Sketcher, Josiah excels in producing remarkable artwork at a rapid pace. Besides sketching, he delves into science and physical exercise. He stands as a reliable support for his friends, always willing to offer a listening ear or a helping hand. Even with his many talents, accomplishments, and admirable attributes, Josiah remains kind and humble.

Josiah; age 15; Shadow Sketcher

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Kennedy

Kennedy, a girl full of radiance with a soul as bright as the sun, resides on a farm and delights in activities that highlight her amazing abilities. From intricately crafting bracelets to elegantly twirling her baton, Kennedy's creativity and patience shine in her creations and interactions with others. In her artwork, Kennedy and her younger sister and partner-in-crime, Kate, form a magnificent team called “The K² Sisters.” As Kennedy spins her baton, she produces a protective aura of dazzling rainbow colors that uplifts those it reaches, while Kate makes people smile and laugh. This dynamic duo is a source of hope and healing, offering courage and comfort to both people and animals under their care. Through teamwork, compassion, and enthusiasm, The K² Sisters strive to create a better world for everyone.

Kennedy; age 8; The Light Spreading Sisters

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Khailee

“Khaikeke,” the superpowered persona of Khailee, possesses an unprecedented gift to teleport and chooses to use this power for altruistic purposes. Motivated by her real-life experiences in Puerto Rico, where she and her father rescued and cared for numerous dogs after natural disasters, Khaikeke takes her heroic deeds to the next level. She instantly transports to South Korea, guided by the Lotus Tower, aiming to prevent tragedies for both people and animals before disasters strike. With an optimistic outlook and a cheerful demeanor, Khaikeke dedicates herself to helping as many individuals as possible, exemplifying resilience, intelligence, and generosity. Her name and her actions symbolize hope and positivity, shining brightly in times of darkness.

Khailee; age 17; PR2KR

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Madison

Madison prioritizes the well-being of others above her own and greets each day with optimism and high spirits, a quality appreciated by those around her. Her superhuman identity, appropriately called “Muditā,” derives from Pāli and Sanskrit origins and translates to the concept of finding joy in others’ happiness. In her artwork, Madison's superpower manifests as the capacity to inspire positivity in others through the words she weaves into her books of inspirational quotes. Her ultimate goal is to use her capabilities to achieve world peace and uplift individuals who may feel disheartened or lost, a truly noble pursuit. With a deep sense of empathy and yearning to encourage others to look on the bright side, Madison embodies the essence of Muditā in her daily life and creative endeavors.

Madison; age 17; Untitled

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Millionaire

Millionaire, a 10-year-old with a heart full of creativity and courage, possesses an infinite imagination and artistic talents. Her superhero persona, “Art Girl,” is a creative crusader who soars through the skies alongside her super pet sidekicks: Artonite the dog, Paintly the cat, and Pental the bunny. Together, they bring beauty and inspiration to Artyll City, a bustling city adorned with Art Girl's masterpieces, and keep it safe from their archnemesis, the “Art Despiser.'' Driven by a desire to uplift and motivate others, Art Girl shares her love for art through teaching, establishing art businesses, and even owning a restaurant with an artistic flair. Located in the city center, “The Painting of Liberty,'' modeled after Art Girl, symbolizes her significant role and the profound power that lies within each stroke of her paintbrush.

Millionaire; age 10; Super Art

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Sturgill

In a far-off galaxy, the legendary cosmic skater called the "Spider King" stands out as a beacon of hope for everyone. Riding his trusty skateboard, he effortlessly performs tricks among the stars, displaying his phenomenal skills and spreading positivity wherever he goes. Each successful trick delivers a powerful message, encouraging all beings to pursue excellence. Similar to Spider King, Sturgill aims to motivate others to persevere in the face of obstacles. Through his family-managed Instagram account, @kickflipsforacure, he not only raises awareness by sharing his own journey, but also creates a space for people to connect and support an important cause. Sturgill's empathy and dedication to helping others find their way through adversity make him a true champion of humanity.

Sturgill; age 8; Untitled

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Trent

Trent’s life is a joyful blend of faith and fun. He loves reading the Bible, strumming his guitar by ear, drawing quirky things, biking in the sunshine, and cherishing moments with his close-knit family. Harnessing his superpowers of faith, compassion, sincerity, benevolence, and responsibility, Trent teaches others about the Gospel, spreads kindness, and stands up for his beliefs. On his mission to make a positive impact, Trent travels to share the Gospel, helping others grow their faith while deepening his own. In his artwork, Trent is surrounded by an ocean view framed by majestic mountains, under a brilliantly sunny sky, with lush green grass. He follows a winding path leading to new friends and adventures. His Christian background is his bedrock, providing strength to persevere and inspire hope.

Trent; age 17; Faithful Sunrise

Art with a Heart in Healthcare patient and their artwork

Xavier

Flying high above Wolfson Children’s Hospital, "Medic Man" is ready to support the medical team in swiftly treating as many patients as possible. Equipped with a utility belt stocked with essential supplies like bandages and medicine, Medic Man is always prepared for any situation. With superhuman speed, a great sense of humor, shape-shifting capabilities, and a lively personality, Medic Man is a genuine hero. Thanks to his dedication, patients are recovering quicker than ever. Much like Medic Man, Xavier also possesses a range of real-life superpowers which he uses to assist those in need. Whether safeguarding his loved ones or defending his sister, Xavier's kindness and courage illuminate the world's shadows.

Xavier; age 16; The Adventures of Medic Man