Herron alumna Rachel Simon speaks from personal experience when she advocates for Art Therapy. “The value of art reaches far beyond the aesthetic,” she said. “I think through Herron’s Art Therapy Program, the general public will begin to see and understand the value of the arts at a more tangible level.”
“The interrelationship between the human condition and science is very real,” said Herron alumna Simon (B.F.A. in Painting, ’08), recently describing why she’s an art therapy advocate. “Within art therapy,” she said, “science ultimately uses art as a communicative tool to help in the healing process.”
Simon speaks from personal experience. While attending Herron, she underwent her first back surgery. She found that creating artwork helped her reconcile physical limitations, pain, self-image and an array of emotions.
“The value of art reaches far beyond the aesthetic,” she shared. “I think through Herron’s Art Therapy Program, the general public will begin to see and understand the value of the arts at a more tangible level.”
On behalf of the Herbert Simon Family Foundation, Rachel said, regarding the Foundation’s recent gift to the Art Therapy Program, “We are excited to see education, art and healthcare create a collaborative and mutually beneficial program that improves the lives of patients and students. It is a true win-win for everyone involved.” She added, “Herron’s approach toward outreach and innovation makes it a natural home for this program, one of 33 in the country.”
Herron recognized the Foundation during IUPUI’s 2013 Spirit of Philanthropy Luncheon and Awards Ceremony on April 2. The event honors the individuals, corporations and foundations that have contributed to campus programs through philanthropic gifts and voluntary services.