'Bringing Nature Indoors' Exhibit Opens at Hudson Valley Hospital Center

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The weather may be getting colder, but we don’t have to leave nature behind. That’s the thinking behind a new art exhibit at Hudson Valley Hospital Center: “Bringing Nature Indoors.”  

The exhibit by the Westchester Photographic Society features the works of 78 photographers from novice to professionals and portrays nature at is most majestic and most whimsical. The works cover a broad range from the panoramic beauty of wide open spaces to the microcosm of nature’s insect and botanical worlds. The exhibit is currently on display in the lobby and in corridors throughout the Hospital, but an opening reception will be held on Thursday, October 20 from 3-5 p.m. in the lobby. A tour of the exhibit will be held before the reception at 2 p.m. The exhibit runs through Jan. 4.

“We decided that nature would be a colorful subject and would appeal to people in a hospital setting,’’ said Lois Barker, President of the Westchester Photographic Society. “Nature is very calming and soothing and a comfort to people looking for solace.’’

Suzanne Ashley, curator of the Hospital’s Art for Health program, which consists of 13 fine art galleries throughout the hospital, said the Westchester Photographic Society has a long history of bringing photographic talent to public venues throughout the state.

Founded in 1978, the Westchester Photographic Society is the oldest and largest photographic club in Westchester County. The group has displayed its members’ works in many public venues including the Empire State Building, the Chapman Gallery at Iona College and the Arts Exchange Gallery at ArtsWestchester. 

The “Art for Health” program is unique because of its scale and the quality of the artwork that it brings to a hospital setting. “Art for Health” now has more than 350 pieces of fine art on display, including signed photographs from Christo and Jeanne-Claude's installations, THE CURTAIN and CATTLE FARM.  Many of the other works are by artists who have exhibited in museums and galleries internationally. Most of the artworks are donated. Last year, “Art for Health” received a community service award from ArtsWestchester.

In addition to the permanent galleries, the Hospital has a rotating gallery in the main lobby which exhibits the works of local artists throughout the year such as the WPS show.

For more information on the “Art for Health or to make a donation, contact the Foundation of Hudson Valley Hospital Center at 914-734-3526.