Art Heals All Wounds

Pam Uzzell
  • 4.8 (38)
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Art Heals All Wounds

Do you think art can change the world? So do I! We’re at a pivotal moment when scientists, medical practitioners, and creatives are coming together in recognition of the ways that art plays an indispensable role in our well-being, as individuals, communities, and societies. In each episode we hear from artists and creatives who share their inspiration for their work and its wider impact. These conversations about transformative artistic practices show the ways that art can be a catalyst for healing and change.  How do we change the world? One artist at a time.

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  1. Exploring Art's Healing Power: Michael Claytor and Andrew Hix on Shift Change Radio Hour

    EPISODE 1

    Exploring Art's Healing Power: Michael Claytor and Andrew Hix on Shift Change Radio Hour

    In this episode of "Art Heals All Wounds," Michael Claytor and Andrew Hix, arts in medicine practitioners at the Arts in Medicine program at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL and co-hosts of the Shift Change Radio Hour share the story behind starting this radio show. Michael, a musician, and Andrew, a literary artist, each share their journey of using art as a tool for healing within the hospital environment. They delve into their unique roles – Michael’s involvement with music engagement for patients and Andrew’s focus on storytelling. The episode highlights their innovative project "Shift Change Radio Hour," a radio show aimed at acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of healthcare workers, especially during the pandemic. They discuss the conception and evolution of this program which focuses on playing song requests from healthcare workers, creating feature stories, and fostering community connections. Michael, and Andrew share how the show has impacted the community, building bridges between hospital staff, patients, and the local community. They also reflect on the personal impact of the show on their own lives, emphasizing the role of collaboration and the healing power of music and storytelling. Key Takeaways: ·       Origins of Shift Change Radio Hour: The program was initiated to provide support and appreciation for exhausted healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is broadcasted twice weekly in collaboration with a local Gainesville radio station, WMBT 90.1 FM. ·       Patient and Staff Interactions: The show is fully request-based, allowing healthcare workers to request songs, which creates a personal and engaging platform for staff and patients alike. This fosters deeper connections and provides a unique arts-based outlet in the healthcare setting. ·       Creativity as a Healing Tool: Michael and Andrew share how integrating music and storytelling into healthcare not only benefits patients but also enriches their own lives as practitioners. They emphasize the importance of boundaries and self-care in their roles, as well as the rewarding nature of their work. ·       Community Building: The show has successfully created connections between hospital staff, patients, and the broader community, emphasizing the human aspects of healthcare environments. ·       Personal Reflections: Both guests express how the show has transformed their approach as artists and their understanding of community engagement through creative media. Follow Shift Change Radio Hour!  WebsiteFollow Me! ●      Art Heals All Wounds Website ●      My Instagram  ●      My LinkedIn ●      Art Heals All Wounds Instagram

    37 min
  2. Art and Dementia: Heather Dawn Batchelor's Vision for Healing

    EPISODE 2

    Art and Dementia: Heather Dawn Batchelor's Vision for Healing

    Guest: Heather Dawn Batchelor Episode Summary: In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I speak with Heather Dawn Batchelor, an abstract expressionist painter and arts practitioner with Arts in Health Ocala Metro in Florida. Heather shares her personal journey with art, influenced by her artistic family, and her work with Memory Cafe, a program supporting individuals with dementia and their caregivers through creative arts. Key Points: 1.     Heather's Background: o   Heather grew up in a creative family, with artist parents. o   Inspired by a ballet production on PBS as a child, she has been chasing the sensation of creative expression through various artistic mediums ever since. o   She pursued art school, studying painting and photography, and connected deeply with abstract expressionism. 2.     Art and Healing: o   Heather explains her desire to make the invisible visible, striving to capture spiritual elements through her art. o   Art serves as a form of personal self-care and emotional expression for Heather, especially through challenging times. 3.     Memory Cafe: o   Heather leads the Memory Cafe, a program for dementia patients and their caregivers under Hospice of Marion County. o   The cafe offers arts and various activities to engage participants, supporting both dementia patients and caregivers. o   Heather shares moving stories of transformation and empowerment through art, emphasizing the universal need and benefit of creative expression. 4.     Impact on Caregivers: o   The program also benefits caregivers, providing them with much-needed support and a creative outlet to process their experiences and stress. 5.     Future Plans: o   Heather discusses potential virtual components for Memory Cafe, ensuring accessibility for caregivers and patients unable to attend in person. 6.     Personal Connections: o   Heather has a personal connection with dementia, having supported friends and family members, including her father, through the condition. Links and Resources: ·       Heather's Website: heatherdawnbachelor.com ·       Arts in Health Ocala Metro: Provides resources and information about programs like the Memory Cafe. ·       Marion County Hospice: Hosting the Memory Cafe and supporting dementia care initiatives. Contact and Feedback: ·       Pam encourages listeners to reach out through her website and sign up for her newsletter for updates on the podcast. Music: ·       Featured Music by Ketsa and Lobo Loco Production Credits: ·       Edited by Iva Hristova Tune in to hear how Heather Dawn Batchelor uses art as a tool for healing and connection in the realm of dementia care and beyond. Follow Me! ●      Art Heals All Wounds Website ●      My Instagram  ●      My LinkedIn ●      Art Heals All Wounds Instagram

    30 min
  3. How Yoga and Mindfulness Can Transform Middle School: Amanda Bush’s Vision

    EPISODE 3

    How Yoga and Mindfulness Can Transform Middle School: Amanda Bush’s Vision

    Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Amanda Bush, a yoga practitioner in residence with Arts in Medicine at Shands UF Health in Gainesville, Florida. Together, we explore Amanda’s vision of bringing yoga and mindfulness practices into middle schools to help students better cope with stress and challenging situations. Drawing on her extensive experience as a middle school educator, Amanda discusses the emotional landscape of adolescence, the potential benefits of integrating yoga and mindfulness into school curriculums, and the obstacles educators face due to underfunding and overburdened staff. The conversation is deeply personal, with both of us sharing our experiences as parents and educators, and it highlights the transformative power of art and movement in healing and supporting young people. Topics Discussed: Amanda’s background in yoga, community outreach, and educationThe unique challenges faced by middle schoolers and the lack of coping resourcesHow yoga and mindfulness can provide critical tools for emotional regulationAmanda’s experiences implementing yoga and movement workshops for youthBarriers to integrating programs like this into schools, including funding and teacher burnoutThe potential for empowering teachers with mindfulness strategiesPersonal stories of transformation through yoga and meditationAmanda’s next steps in making her vision a realityKey Takeaways: Middle schoolers are often in emotional limbo, facing adult-level stress without the necessary toolsMindfulness and movement can help students manage anxiety, increase self-awareness, and improve resilienceMaking these practices part of the school day (not just after school) would increase accessibility and long-term impactTeachers are overwhelmed and underfunded, but can be a powerful ally in supporting student well-being if given the right resourcesAmanda’s work is ongoing, and she aims to expand access and education in this vital areaAbout the Guest: Amanda Bush is a yoga practitioner, educator, and community outreach facilitator. She is passionate about integrating yoga and mindfulness into education to support the holistic well-being of young people. Find Amanda: Website: elevatedyogaandwellness.comInstagram: @elevatedyogaandwellness and @amanda.elevated.yogaAbout the Host: Pam Uzzell is the creator and host of Art Heals All Wounds, a podcast spotlighting artists whose work brings healing, understanding, and transformation to individuals and communities. Resources Mentioned: Shands UF Health, Gainesville, FloridaGirls Place (summer camp)Breathe for Change (yoga teacher training program focused on educators)How to Support the Show: Follow Art Heals All Wounds on your favorite podcast appLeave a five-star rating or reviewReach out via arthealsallwoundspodcast.comCredits: Music by Ketsa and Lobo LocoPodcast editing by Iva Hristova Thank you for listening! Be sure to connect with Amanda Bush for updates on her journey and the evolution of mindfulness in education.

    32 min
  4. Bringing Light to Dark Moments: Selma Zollman and the Healing Music of Brazilian Voices

    EPISODE 4

    Bringing Light to Dark Moments: Selma Zollman and the Healing Music of Brazilian Voices

    In this episode, I’m joined by Selma Zollman, a music therapist and member of Brazilian Voices—a nonprofit female vocal group based in South Florida. For over 22 years, Brazilian Voices has been bringing the tranquil sounds of Bossa Nova into hospitals, medical facilities, and schools, uplifting patients, families, and healthcare workers through music. What You'll Hear: Pam’s personal journey with grief and how art and music can provide solace in times of loss.Selma Zollman’s story of following her passion for music therapy and joining Brazilian Voices.The transformative power of harmony—how Brazilian Voices uses soft, multi-part singing to create a gentle ambiance in hospitals, allowing patients, families, and staff to simply “be.”Why the group’s presence is about illumination, not cure, and how performing with “no expectations” brings peace for both singers and listeners.Heartfelt anecdotes about the response from patients (including those at end-of-life), their families, and healthcare workers touched by the music.Selma’s thoughts on the importance of expanding similar music programs to more hospitals and healthcare settings, despite the challenges around privacy and logistics.Ways to follow and learn more about Brazilian Voices, including their Instagram, Facebook, and website.Learn More: Find out more about Brazilian Voices: Instagram: @brazilianvoicesFacebook: Brazilian VoicesWebsite: brazilianvoices.orgConnect with the Show: Host Pam Uzzell welcomes your feedback and stories. Reach out via arthealsallwoundspodcast.com. Credits: Music in this episode: Ketsa, Lobo Loco, and Brazilian VoicesEditing by Iva Hristova

    29 min
  5. Healing Through Art: Larissa Trinder on NYC Health + Hospitals

    EPISODE 5

    Healing Through Art: Larissa Trinder on NYC Health + Hospitals

    In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I sit down with Larissa Trinder, the Assistant Vice President for Arts in Medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals. Larissa shares the transformative power of art within healthcare, discussing how intentional art initiatives and community engagement can improve hospital environments, support staff, and promote wellness for patients—including those in marginalized communities. Key Topics Covered ·       Larissa’s Path to Arts in Medicine: Larissa shares her personal journey, starting with her son’s experience with dyslexia and the role of art in boosting his self-esteem, ultimately leading to his career as an animator.  ·       History of NYC Health + Hospitals’ Art Collection: The hospital system holds over 7,500 works of art, one of the largest public art collections in NYC, originating from the 1930s Works Progress Administration. The collection includes iconic works like Abram Champanier’s Alice in Wonderland panels and a Keith Haring mural raising AIDS awareness. ·       Art as a Tool for Engagement and Healing: Larissa explains how art programs serve not just to beautify spaces, but to foster community, support staff well-being, and highlight critical social issues like gun violence and support for asylum seekers. ·       Highlighted Projects: o   Art programs in correctional health services at Rikers Island, including a mural at the reentry center co-created by incarcerated individuals and artist Dindga McCannon. o   Guns Down, Life Up—an arts initiative embedded in hospital violence prevention programs. Upcoming Events & Announcements ·       Documentary Premiere: Hidden Art Healing Walls will air on WNET’s Treasures of New York and all PBS stations in early 2026, showcasing the Art in Medicine program. ·       Major Exhibition: An exhibition of the Abram Champanier murals opens at the Museum of the City of New York, June–September 2026—the museum’s largest show of the year. ·       New Exhibitions: o   We Belong Here (opens June 4, 2026): An exhibition highlighting immigrant support through NYC Care, with works by three immigrant artists displayed citywide. o   Housing for Health/Street Health Outreach: In collaboration with NYU’s Healing Arts Week (fall 2026), featuring art created by patients experiencing homelessness. How to Learn More ·       Bloomberg Connects App: Search for NYC Health + Hospitals Arts in Medicine to view a digital collection and learn more about their programming. ·       Official Website: NYC Health + Hospitals – Arts in Medicine (Note: The site is being updated but contains extensive information.) ·       Book: Healing Walls – Features photos and stories of the community mural program. ·       Therman Statom ·       Roger Ulrich Connect with Art Heals All Wounds Website: arthealsallwoundspodcast.com Credits ·       Music: By Ketsa and Lobo Loco ·       Editor: Iva Hristova

    35 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    Why Supporting the Arts Matters Now More Than Ever

    I’m letting you know that the current season of Art Heals All Wounds—focused on arts in medicine—has come to an end and that the podcast will be going on a temporary break. My increased workload and other creative commitments necessitate some time away, but I intend to use this pause to return with renewed perspective and fresh ideas. This is a challenging climate for the arts in the United States. Recent threats to arts funding is resulting in the rescinding of grants for many organizations, including some previously featured on the show. I hope listeners can support the local arts organizations whenever possible. I also encourage you to harness creativity as a tool for community connection and personal well-being. Please send in suggestions and ideas for future episodes through the podcast’s website. Thank you to all of the listeners of this show! More to come! Key Takeaways: The current season is ending; the podcast is taking a few months’ break but will return.Juggling a demanding day job and other creative projects, leading to the need for a pause.Recent political developments in the US threaten funding for the arts, impacting many organizations.Support local arts and cultural centers, especially during times of uncertainty.You are invited to share feedback and ideas for future episodes via arthealsallwoundspodcast.com.Gratitude is extended to the global creative community and the podcast’s listeners.Stay tuned—more episodes and inspiration are coming! Links: Art Heals All Wounds WebsiteContact: Have suggestions or feedback? Reach out through the website! Thanks for listening, and stay creative!

    4 min
See All Season 8 (6)

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4.8
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Do you think art can change the world? So do I! We’re at a pivotal moment when scientists, medical practitioners, and creatives are coming together in recognition of the ways that art plays an indispensable role in our well-being, as individuals, communities, and societies. In each episode we hear from artists and creatives who share their inspiration for their work and its wider impact. These conversations about transformative artistic practices show the ways that art can be a catalyst for healing and change.  How do we change the world? One artist at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Pam Uzzell
  • Episodes
    145
  • Seasons
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Art Heals All Wounds
  • Show Website
    Art Heals All Wounds

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