Neurology's Fresh Art Hub Promotes Inclusivity and Fairness
The Department of Neurology at Strong Memorial Hospital has recently opened a unique art gallery named the Unity Gallery. Located in the Joynt Corridor, 5.4300, the gallery is designed to provoke thought, encourage dialogue, and celebrate diversity.
The Unity Gallery was spearheaded by Blanca Valdovinos, MD, associate chair of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for the Department, and is under the stewardship of Rochester artist Shawn Dunwoody. The gallery's purpose is to open people up to more perspectives, cultures, and broader ways of thinking, while also serving as a therapeutic and reflective space for patients, families, staff, and visitors.
David Paul, MD, the artist for the opening exhibition, will return to Rochester in summer 2024 to serve as the director of Brain and Spinal Trauma at the Medical Center. David, who received his medical degree from the University of Rochester in 2016 and completed his residency with the Department of Neurosurgery in 2023, is currently finishing a fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
The opening exhibition, titled "Lenses: Art, Coffee, Representation," showcases art related to neuroscience and neurology, promoting awareness and education about neurological diseases through creative expression. The exhibit challenges viewers to confront the stark contrast between societal views of Black masculinity and the untold stories of men who are living each day driven to be the best versions of themselves.
Art, according to Bob Holloway, MD, MPH, chair of the Department of Neurology, can build critical thinking skills, empathy, and make people better physicians. The Unity Gallery is a testament to this belief, as it aims to represent the commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
The Unity Gallery is open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and can also be viewed virtually on its website. The gallery will have a seasonal rotating collection of art, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience for all visitors. For detailed and accurate information about the Unity Gallery's history, mission, and upcoming exhibitions, we recommend contacting the Department of Neurology directly or visiting their official website or social media channels.
The Unity Gallery, under the stewardship of Rochester artist Shawn Dunwoody, aims to represent the commitment to creating an environment that fosters mental health, diversity, and inclusion. As part of its mission, it hosts exhibitions like "Lenses: Art, Coffee, Representation," which promotes health-and-wellness and sheds light on neurological diseases, particularly those affecting Black men, while building empathy and critical thinking skills. The gallery can be visited physically or virtually, and it showcases different artworks throughout the seasons, encouraging continuous learning about neuroscience and neurology, as well as the importance of finance in supporting scientific endeavors.
