Each summer the Associate Board of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago hosts an event and exhibition to benefit its renowned art therapy program. This year, the 14th Annual Art in Motion opening celebration will take place on Thursday, May 5 from 5:30-9pm at Northwestern University's Lurie Center, Ryan Family Atrium at 303 East Superior (60611) in Streeterville. 

Art in Motion is an important fundraiser and unique art exhibition hosted by the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago’s Associate Board that brings the thriving art community and philanthropy community of Chicago together to support the very important cause of art therapy. James Rondeau, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at The Art Institute of Chicago (at the time he did the jurying) designates the most outstanding works submitted by hundreds of artists from around the country. This festive evening embodies the generosity of both professional & patient artists who donate artwork sales proceeds to the RIC Art Therapy program.

RIC’s Art Therapy program is funded solely through philanthropic support, and is one of the key elements that make RIC the #1 rehabilitation hospital in the world. In addition to traditional physical, speech, and occupational therapy, art therapy is an integral part of a patient’s care at RIC. Art Therapy not only allows patients to relearn motor skills and coordination, but also helps them express the emotions they feel as they adjust to a new, challenging way of life. Some patients even discover previously untapped artistic talent, which they often continue to enjoy for the rest of their lives after they leave RIC.

Here is one moving story about an artist and RIC patient. Antonio Davis’ passion has always been art. He loved drawing and painting ever since he was young and studied graphic design in high school.

In 1994, he sustained a gunshot wound to the chest that left him a quadriplegic.                            

Now, Antonio’s paintings have received worldwide recognition and the MFPA has reproduced many of his paintings. Through art he has found a purpose. During his rehabilitation at RIC he was first introduced to mouth painting. Antonio's work will be on view at Art in Motion. 

Here are just a few more things that your support as an Art in Motion guest will make possible:

• Resident Art Therapist on site 24 hours-a-week to initiate and lead programs;
• Over 700 hours of art therapy services provided, to both individuals and groups of patients;
• One year of twice-weekly movement therapy classes at RIC’s Health and Fitness Center.

For more information and tickets visit: donate.ric.org/artinmotion