Art is the Best Medicine

Research has found value in the use of the arts in medicine, and the arts can reflect and connect to experiences related to medicine and health. This exhibit explores how artists represent the connections between art and medicine, healing, medical equity, therapy, history, and more, and how artists use art as a form of medicine.

In connection with the Missouri Southern State University Artful Medicine: Bridging Medicine and the Humanities Symposium, visual art that illustrates the connections between medicine and the arts will be displayed during the national symposium October 19-21, 2023. During the symposium, speakers will present ideas on medical education, health equity, art and design innovation, the art of diagnosis, art therapy, and art and medicine from a historical perspective. Artists working within all visual media are welcome to apply, including printmaking, illustration, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, painting, and photography. The exhibit will be in the Four-States Gallery at the Cornell Complex in downtown Joplin for the three days of the symposium.

Eligibility: Artists living and working in the Four-States region (Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma) may submit up to 3 artworks. Entry fee is $10.00. Submit 1-3 digital images through CAFE. 2-D work must be framed or on gallery-wrapped canvas and hang-ready with wire or D-ring hanging system; no sawtooth hangers accepted. Hanging works are limited to a maximum size of 18"x24". All 3-D work must be display ready. If accepted, artists are required to deliver or ship the work at their own expense, including return shipping.