ORLANDO, FL. (May 24, 2012) – When cancer patients walk through the doors at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando they embark on life changing experiences as they fight their disease. For many, that experience includes the Artists-in-Residence program, which helps patients use their artistic creativity to meet the challenges of their cancer journey. Thanks to a community partnership and generous donation from Baker Barrios Architects, the Artists-in-Residence Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will continue to make an impact on our cancer patients. The Artists-in-Residence Program, in partnership with United Arts of Central Florida, involves artists working one-on-one with cancer patients on a variety of art projects, from painting to photography and beyond.
“We have seen this program blossom and grow here at MD Anderson Orlando and we hear over and over again from patients that they never imagined that art would help them heal and fight their cancer, but it does,” said Mark Roh, MD, President, MD Anderson Orlando. “Thanks to this donation from Baker Barrios Architects, and the support of United Arts, our Artists-in-Residence program can continue to have this powerful impact on our patients who are fighting the toughest fight of their lives.”
Orlando Health and MD Anderson Orlando welcome Baker Barrios Architects and United Arts of Central Florida for a tour of the Artists-in-Residence program. From left John Thiesen, Karl Hodges, Jeanne Miller-Clark, Juliana Steele, Monte Olinger, Lisa Gibson, Shanon Larimer, Tyler Kirby, Tim Baker, Carlos Barrios and Andrea Canny.
MD Anderson Orlando’s Artists-in-Residence program includes three artists who work weekly with patients. In their first year in operation artists held more than 950 art “lessons” with cancer patients.
“MD Anderson Orlando is known for providing the highest level of quality, compassionate care and we are honored to support their Artists-in-Residence program,” said Tim Baker, Founding Principal of Baker Barrios Architects. “We share the vision of building stronger, healthier communities through sustainable programs and we take great pride in supporting the creative process as a survivorship tool.”
Started in 2011 in partnership with the United Arts of Central Florida and originally funded by a grant from the LIVESTRONG® Community Impact Project, the Artists-in-Residence Program brings artists to the patient’s bedside or, in many cases, chemotherapy chair. Now, with the generosity of Baker Barrios Architects, artists will continue to work side-by-side with patients, helping patients manage and cope with their cancer reality through therapeutic hands-on art projects.
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.
Baker Barrios Architects
Established in 1993, Baker Barrios is a minority-owned, award-winning planning and design firm with a core focus in architecture, interior design and landscape architecture. Baker Barrios leverages its deep resources and diverse expertise to develop design solutions for industries including Commercial, Corporate, Education, Entertainment, Healthcare, Hospitality, Industrial, Mixed-Use and Residential properties. Baker Barrios collaborates with clients to create environments that enhance organizational performance, achieve measurable business goals, and enrich people and communities. Consistently ranked among leading firms, the company’s headquarters was awarded the 2011 “Firm of the Year” by the Orlando Chapter of the American Association of Architects. www.bakerbarrios.com
United Arts of Central Florida
United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic collaboration of 164 businesses, 8 governments and school districts, 38 foundations, more than 50 arts and cultural organizations, and 3,188 artists and individuals. This partnership works to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Since its inception in 1989, United Arts has invested more than $117 million in local cultural organizations and cultural education. United Arts strengthens the community by connecting you with creative opportunities and experiences. The Arts Matter™ – for our children, for our economy, for our community. For more information please visit UnitedArts.cc, or to perform an act of philanthropy by giving for the arts, visit TheArtsMatter.com.