Walk into any medical facility and some kind of art usually adorns the walls. But Monument Health officials in Rapid City decided to feature some uniquely special art, showcasing the talents of their own caregivers at its 'Cure-ation Caregiver Art Show.'
Dr. David Kovaleski is a critical care physician and submitted three works for the art show. He got involved after he suggested the idea. "Actually, I had sent an email about how we should have a provider art show," said Kovalski. We have so many talented people in the entire system, we should showcase them.”
Little did he know, the Monument art committee had been planning one for years before COVID hit and made them scale back.
Elle Larsen is the Director of Real Estate and Space Planning at Monument Health. Her side gig--chair of Monument’s art committee. “You know, Monument and myself really just see the connection between art and healing and that's true for the artists, as well as a people that view it," said Larson. "Working in a healthcare environment can be stressful, you know, we I think about our caregivers that are caring for patients at their bedside and art really is just kind of an outlet."
The show featured 65 works of art in several mediums from Monument Health caregivers—everyone from the nurses and doctors to accountants and support staff.
Kovaleski has been an artist for many years, calling himself a ‘doodler.’ The pieces he submitted he already had “piled up and stacked against the wall.” He said he asked his wife to choose three of her favorites for the show.
“Art is important to me. It keeps me grounded, it makes me a more rounded, better person," said Kovaleski. "I think it helps you see things in people, you see talent, and you see it helps. You express your emotions at times and instead of just coming to work and going home and binge-watching TV shows or something like that. You know, I mean it just helps you become a deeper person."
Dahl Art Center representatives chose between 20 and 25 of the art show’s pieces, which they’ll display in a pop-up show on Nov. 22 from 5 to 7 p.m. Proceeds from sales go toward the Caring for Our Caregivers Fund.