On 6 September, the first exhibition of artwork competition “Art Wins!” of Aina Muceniece Virotherapy Foundation was opened at the new wing of the Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital. At the opening event, representatives from art world and medical field unanimously agreed that the positivity radiating from the art benefits the recovery process.
At the opening of the exhibition that displays 21 pieces of art, the Member of the Board of the Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, Elita Buša, said: “Today, we celebrate the opening of the art exhibition and the establishing of a new tradition at our hospital. Here, people recover from illnesses, receive treatment and regain strength. I believe that the energy and devotion that the authors of the artworks have incorporated in them will also help other patients. Professor Pauls Stradiņš once told that medicine is a profession, science and art all at once. When the new wing of the hospital was at design stage, we already planned to have a space for displaying art which is why I wish that this tradition continues and fills this room with works that inspire!
Einars Repše, the Head of Aina Muceniece Virotherapy Foundation, in his address to the visitors of the exhibition reiterated the competition’s motto “Art Wins!” stressing that: “All patients, especially oncology patients, need support and cheering up. They need to have faith in their strength, positivity as well as a caring and inspiring environment. And art is what can help creating this environment!”
The grandson of scientist Aina Muceniece, Jurģis Auziņš, also participated in the opening event and thanked to the organisers of the exhibition: “The Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital is a noteworthy place for the opening of the exhibition as this is where Aina Muciniece spent 40 years of her career.”
Artist Vēsma Vītola whose work is also exhibited stressed: “Of course, art helps to get back on track. That is the meaning behind my work. Art and love! All you need to do is feel the energy that radiates from the paintings and it will help you.”
Currently, the exhibition displays the works that have been sent in thus far, however, every artist, aspiring painter or art enthusiast can submit their new artworks that will help inspire the fight against oncological diseases and to win the battle. Once a year, the Virotherapy Foundation will choose three works to award with prizes: the first place will be awarded with 4000 euro, the second with 2000 euro and the third with 1000 euro. During the competition, the participants will be awarded with several incentive prizes, too.
The competition is still open for any art lover from anywhere in the world. More information: http://www.virotherapyfoundation.org/en/art/
