At ArtsFund’s 2015 Celebration of the Arts Luncheon, keynote address by Vijay Gupta (Founder of Street Symphony, TED Senior Fellow, and Mental Health Advocate) focused on the redemptive and regenerative power of music. Gupta’s work explores music’s ability to change our brains, heal ailments, and ultimately, transform lives. There are many connections between the arts organizations in our region and health and healing. For instance:

• The Frye Art Museum’s here:now program serves those living with dementia and their care partners through gallery experiences, art making classes, and interactive film programs. This free monthly program expanded in 2014, to include individuals living with early-to-mid-stage dementia to as well as those with more advanced dementia.
• Jack Straw Productions partners with local organizations in increasing access for individuals with disabilities and English Language Learners , and in co-producing education programs for the blind. Their Art & Technology Programs take place at schools, in their studios, and in community centers.
• The Museum of Glass’ “Hot Shop Heroes: Healing with Fire” program, a partnership with the Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, serves soldiers with the most complex and devastating physical and mental injuries.
• Seattle Arts & Lectures partners with Seattle Children’s Hospital serving Seattle Cancer Care Alliance patients, as well as patients in the psychiatric ward, in rehabilitation, and on dialysis.
• Seattle Theatre Group partners with Spectrum Dance Theater to offer the Mark Morris Dance Group developed Dance for PD® method to provide dance instruction for Parkinson’s disease survivors and their caregivers. Clinical trials have demonstrated clear evidence of the positive effect
of this program in relieving symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
• Tacoma Musical Playhouse provides performing and education opportunities to seniors
• Village Theatre partners with Cocoon House offering theatre experiences for homeless teens in long-term transitional housing.
• And MANY more!