The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine (USD SSOM) developed an “Arts in Medicine” program last fall. The program focuses on visual arts, revealing what one might otherwise fail to see. “Generations of physicians have recognized that medicine is more than science and technology alone. An understanding of the complexity of human burdens, motivations and beliefs is crucial” according to their website. The Arts in Medicine project helps to “enhance perception that can promote the wisdom and empathy that fosters excellent patient care.”
A new exhibit just opened in the Atrium Balcony Gallery located in the Wegner Health Science Center Medical School/Library. It is titled “A Road Trip with Cancer” with Ann and Gary Pederson. It chronicles a 2-year journey that Ann Pederson and her husband Gary shared as they’ve coped with her rare solitary fibrous tumor of the abdomen with which she was diagnosed in February of 2022. The flier for the project states “As they’ve driven across South Dakota and neighboring states, they’ve chosen to reflect on meanings and memory through journaling and Gary’s visual sketches. The Pederson’s account of “road trips” take the viewer/reader of this exhibition to special places.”
According to their dear friend, Dr. Luann Eidsness USD SSOM Professor Emeritus, “It is a beautiful sharing of words and paintings about their journey with Ann’s cancer. This is very heartfelt and moving to the reader.”
To experience this journey, visit the Atrium Balcony Gallery. When you enter the main entrance of the medical school/library, there are signs to guide you to the gallery. Take the elevator to the second floor. There will be an open reception on April 10, 2024 at 4 pm.
To learn more click here.
