The .ART team attended the annual meeting of the American Alliance of Museums, where we premiered our new short film, "The Healing Powers of Art." Inspired by Medina Kasimova, the film explores how art has been a sanctuary and means of expression for her since childhood, reflecting the therapeutic power of art. It features experts like Heidi Bardot from George Washington University and Melinda Riddle McCoy of the ELM Foundation. The premiere generated significant interest, emphasizing art's role in personal and community healing.

At the 2023 American Alliance of Museums Expo, .ART held a session "Art Therapy in Museums: Unlocking Mental Wellness for Communities & Beyond", led by Heidi Bardot from George Washington University. The session explored innovative ways to weave Art Therapy into museum experiences, boosting mental well-being for all. A key exercise had attendees draw their emotional responses to an artwork, highlighting the power of non-verbal self-expression. Join us as we continue to delve into Art Therapy's transformative potential in museums and beyond.

As part of the ongoing initiative, .ART has pledged a $1 million endowment for graduate fellowships for students in the Art Therapy Program at George Washington University. The endowment will support deserving students to complete the graduate program and provide art therapy services to a broader community, especially in these particularly stressful times.  The Art Therapy Program, which is part of GW's Columbian College of Arts & Sciences, is one of the first of its kind in the United States. Students explore all aspects of art therapy, trauma training and diagnosis, and complete 900 internship hours with direct client contact in the on-campus clinic.