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Sculpturing Minds at the Douglas : Mental health institution adds to its art repertoire |
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“The only time I feel alive is when I’m painting,” said Vincent van
Gogh. This sentiment is one that th e Douglas Hospital is hoping to
convey by the addition of three new structures to its Sculpture Garden.
These works of art, completed by artist-sculptor Maurice Lemieux, will
be unveiled during an inauguration ceremony Wednesday, November 1, 2006
on the Douglas Hospital grounds, 6875 LaSalle boulevard in Verdun.
“We are fortunate to have Lemieux’s beautiful art displayed on our
grounds, says Jacques Hendlisz, director general of the Douglas.
“Edward Cohen, the founder of the Sculpture Garden, created a calm,
relaxing place where the patients, our staff and the public can heal
and reflect. Lemieux’s sculptures have added a depth that is
unparalleled.”
Lemieux, 1931-1994, is a world-renowned artist from Quebec and his art
is displayed worldwide, including around the city of Montréal. Most
notably his sculpture Enterspace can be seen at the entrance of the
Peel metro station. Musical Resonance, Oriental and Embrace, will be
added to the Douglas gardens in celebration of its 125th anniversary
Walking onto the Douglas grounds, Ghislaine Lemieux, the artist’s
widow, knew she had found a special place. “It was so serene and
beautiful. We knew that we’d feel good about having the sculptures
displayed here.”
The Douglas has taken an innovative approach to healing by creating a
sculpture garden to help people suffering from mental illness. Edward
Cohen, a retired nursing assistant, founded the garden in 2002. He
wanted to create a haven of peace and comfort for patients. The garden,
which is continually evolving, now displays 16 sculptures, donated by
Quebec artists such as Glen LeMesurier, Claude Millette and Esther
Wertheimer.
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