Chihuly’s art to provide sanctuary for cancer patients

Artist Dale Chihuly will bring his vibrant works of art to patients, families and staff at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center when it opens in the spring of 2017.

Chihuly, a pioneer of the studio glass movement and considered to be one of the world’s foremost artists working in glass today, will create an installation known as the Chihuly Sanctuary inside the cancer center.

“I really wanted to create a space for people to meditate and find a moment of peace,” Chihuly said.

Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., UNMC  chancellor and chairman of the Nebraska Medicine Advisory Board, said that the Chihuly Sanctuary will be an integral part of the Healing Arts Program, which has been developed using evidence-based research to aid in the healing of patients.

“We are fortunate to have Mr. Chihuly’s art as a part of our campus,” Dr. Gold said. “I have no doubt that the brilliant colors and innovative shapes he’s known for will serve as an inspiration to our patients on their journey toward healing, and to our staff and students as we travel on this journey together.”

The Healing Arts Program will include the most motivating and meaningful works of art to help heal the human spirit – from reduced pain perception, anxiety, stress, loneliness and depression to providing new insight and emotional clarity about a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

“Art can have a very positive effect on the healing process,” said Kenneth Cowan, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.

“Having beautiful, peaceful and creative pieces by one of the most talented artists in the world today, as one of the cornerstones of our Healing Arts Program, gives me great confidence that we are doing everything possible to help our patients heal emotionally, as well as physically.”

“This small corner of the city is well on its way to becoming a world-class medical center, so we thought it was worthy of some world-class art,” said Walter Scott, the lead donor.