All is set for the inaugural National Arts in Health Conference organized by artist Kunle Adewale’s Arts in Medicine Projects.
Featuring about 500 participants, including students, professionals, cultural organizations, healthcare institutions, and others in health and community well-being, it will happen from May 24 to 30 digitally and physically.
The conference, whose goals include strengthening institutional ties and bridging the gap between the arts and health in Nigeria, will feature presentations by experts in both fields.
Lagos State Health Commissioner Professor Akin Abayomi will deliver a keynote on May 26. The United States Consul General, Claire Pierangelo, will also address the gathering.
Specific activities of the conference include a spotlight on arts in health and community art programs in Nigeria such as the Arts in Medicine Fellowship, Arts in Medicine Programs at the Sickle Cell Foundation, Art4life of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Footprint of David, Sobayo Abolore Art Foundation, Street Project Foundation, Mud Art Ltd, and Sip and Paint Nigeria.
The My COVID story segment aimed at providing a stigma-free platform to shed light on surviving the virus will give people an opportunity to share their experiences combating the COVID-19.
There’s also journaling your way to mental health, which explores the relevance of using creative writing and other creative activities to boost personal mental well-being.
‘Mediwood’ would use filmmaking and documentaries to highlight health conditions and bring about community engagement.
The Art saves: My story session explores the uplifting powers of the arts for individuals who have persevered and overcome health and disabilities challenges.
Other activities of the conference include art therapy masterclass with the United States Art envoy, the inauguration of the first Arts and Health innovation Hub in Africa at Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, and Medics in the arts, a panel discussion which focuses on Medics’ exploring their creativity for advocacy, education and healthy -being in their personal space and the community.
Kunle Adewale founded arts in Medicine Projects in 2016 through the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Mission Nigeria. It partners with government agencies, diplomatic missions, local and international NGOs.