Open Journal of Occupational Therapy: Occupation and the Artist | Occupational Therapy

The “Occupation and the Artist” section of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) highlights the use of art in the practice of occupational therapy (OT) and in the occupations of both consumers of OT services and its practitioners.

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Can You See What I See? An Art Project Promoting Living Well with Dementia

Jennifer Fortuna

Caroline Hyland, an illustrator and former occupational therapist based in Dublin, Ireland provided the cover art for the Winter 2023 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Can You See What I See?” is an acrylic painting on black textured paper. The piece was inspired by Caroline’s grandmother Kathleen Duhig, her love of flowers, and the song "The Dutchman.” Kathleen and three of her sisters lived with dementia. This painting, and several others, are featured in a book Caroline wrote to support living well with dementia. By combining her artistic talents and training as an occupational therapist, Caroline advocates for a society that sees people with dementia first, not their disease.
Promoting Longevity through Engagement in Purposeful Occupations

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Ron Henry, an artist based in Grand Junction, Colorado provided the cover art for the Fall 2022 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “On the Trail to Durango” is a 36” x 36” painting made from oil and acrylic on gesso board. Ron has been creating beautiful art since he was a child. Throughout his life, art has provided Ron with a strong sense of purpose. At age 90, Ron attributes his longevity to living a healthy lifestyle and regular engagement in purposeful occupations such as painting. In this tenth anniversary issue of OJOT, Occupation and the Artist is profiling Ron to celebrate his nearly nine-decade long career as an artist.
The Anatomy of Human Occupation

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Dr. Emily Balog, PhD., OTR/L, ECHM, an occupational therapy professor and artist based in New Jersey, provided the cover art for the Summer 2022 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “The Knitting Brain” is a 11” x 15” painting made from watercolors. The inspiration for this painting came from years of experience working with individuals with head injury, stroke, and mental illness. The piece is from her “Anatomy of Human Occupation” series. This collection of paintings is a unique and authentic representation of Dr. Balog’s love of the human body and the healing power of occupation. Dr. Balog is an occupational therapist with expertise working with older adults in the community. She is also a highly decorated veteran who uses art to heal herself and other veterans from trauma experienced in service. For Dr. Balog, engaging in art is a powerful tool for recovery.
Nurturing Personal Capacities Through Engagement in Art

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Andy Wunderlin, an artist based in Vicksburg, Michigan provided the cover art for the Spring 2022 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Tree with Birds” is a 10” x 13” drawing made from colored pencil (see Figure 1). Andy’s style is uniquely photorealistic. His work involves meticulous attention to detail. On average, each piece takes between six months and two years to complete. For Andy, drawing provides a powerful source of motivation and purpose. Art has played an important role in the development of Andy’s personal capacities and potential.
Using Creative Making to Redesign Life After Stroke

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Kate Davies, a knitwear designer and author based in Scotland, provided the cover art for the Winter 2022 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Balance for Better” is a blanket made from wool and mohair. The blanket consists of 30 individual squares designed and knitted by KDD & Co. employees. The colors and pattern of each square reflect the work, achievements, and legacy of the inspirational women celebrated in the blanket. At age 36, Kate suffered a near fatal stroke that left her paralyzed on the left side of her body. Forced to give up her career as an academic lecturer, she used the meaningful occupation of knitting to create a new path. Through knitting, Kate redesigned her life.
Adapting the Ceramics Process with Creative Problem Solving

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Madeline Kaczmarczyk, a ceramics sculptor based in Rockford, Michigan, provided the cover art for the Fall 2021 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The wall vase is made from clay, luster glaze and glass beads. Madeline describes the piece as a playful take on shadows and patterns using a deconstructed classic vase form. Madeline has been creating decorative ceramics for over four decades. In recent years, she has found creative ways to adapt the ceramics process so she can continue creating beautiful works of art. For Madeline, ceramics is more than a means to make a living. This meaningful activity brings focus to her life.
Ikebana: An Ancient Tradition of Contemporary Healing and Artful Practice

Jennifer K. Fortuna PhD, OTR/L

Dr. Ricardo Carrásco, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, occupational therapy professor and ikebana artist, provided the cover art for the Summer 2021 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). Ikebana is the ancient Japanese art of arranging flowers. “Kanta of the Wind, Sun and Moon” is an ikebana design made from blue and white Phalaenopsis orchids, chrysanthemum, bear grass and heirloom driftwood. This gendaika, or freestyle design is a haiku tribute to the wind, sun and moon. Dr. Carrásco has been practicing occupational therapy and ikebana for more than five decades. As an occupational scientist and therapist, he has experience working in pediatric, academic, research, mental health and wellness practice settings. Dr. Carrásco currently serves as headmaster of the Banmi Shofu Ryu school of ikebana. His story is shared from a sense of duty and obligation to preserve this ancient tradition of contemporary healing and artful practice.
Life Repurposed: Finding a New Calling Through Meaningful Occupation

Jennifer Fortuna PhD, OTRL

Kelly Allen, an occupational therapist and artist based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provided the cover art for the Spring 2021 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Follow” is a 16” x 20” painting made from oil on panel. The painting, which features a coati from Central America, is from Kelly’s Animal Totem series. After more than two decades as a fine artist and educator, she began searching for a career change. Kelly’s background in fine art and desire to help others prepared her for a career in occupational therapy. Certain events in Kelly’s life aligned not by chance, but to prepare for her for what was next.
Creating a New Normal Through Engagement in Meaningful Occupation

Jennifer K. Fortuna PhD, OTRL

Katie Edick, an occupational therapist and artist based in Portland, Michigan, provided the cover art for the Winter 2021 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Katie Bird” is a 4” x 6” watercolor painting. After receiving a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer (MBC), Katie set out to find a new purpose and leave a legacy. She made the decision to live with intention and choose life experiences that create joy. Through engagement in meaningful occupations such as painting and patient advocacy, Katie is creating a new normal.
Healing the Mind and Soul with Art and Music

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Gracie Fisher, an artist and composer based in Santa Barbara California, provided the cover art for the Fall 2020 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “The Fruit of Spirit” is a 16” x 20” oil painting on canvas. When a rare neurologic condition left Gracie paralyzed from the neck down, art and music helped to heal her mind and soul. Upon returning home from the hospital, Gracie’s wish was to create an inclusive environment where children of all abilities could engage in art and music. She founded the Grace Fisher Foundation so others could experience the healing nature of occupation. Gracie believes art comes in many forms. With the right environment, tools and supports, anyone can create.
Integrating Art into Life in Pursuit of Occupational Balance

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Dr. Sharon Gutman, PhD, OTR, FAOTA, an occupational therapy professor and artist based in New York, provided the cover art for the Summer 2020 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Goldfish” is a 10” x 13” watercolor painting. Dr. Gutman has nearly 30 years of experience in clinical practice, higher education, research and service to the profession. Dr. Gutman pursued a career in occupational therapy because it was a field where she could use her creativity. This decision led to an extraordinary career and a life of service to others. When the demands of a busy lifestyle put Dr. Gutman’s well-being at risk, she integrated art into life in pursuit of occupational balance.
Charting a New Course Through Meaningful Occupation

Jennifer K. Fortuna MS, OTRL

Rory Odom, an artist and United States Marine Corps Veteran based in Florida, provided the cover art for the Spring 2020 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Turtles All the Way Down” is an 8”x10” oil painting on canvas. After a tragic accident changed the course of Rory’s life, painting gave him hope. During rehabilitation, Rory sought opportunities to challenge himself and build technical skill as a painter. His bold use of color and signature impressionist style convey emotion and movement. In the face of adversity, meaningful occupation helped Rory chart a new course in life.
Quilting and Sharing: Promoting Lifelong Learning and Service to Others

Jennifer K. Fortuna

Lynne Hall, an occupational therapist, educator and quilter based in Kalamazoo, MI, provided the cover art for the Winter 2020 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Four Patch Posy” is a 45” x 55” quilt made from cotton. In her 50^th year of occupational therapy practice, Lynne’s philosophy is rooted in lifelong learning and service to others. The quilt aesthetic provides Lynne a creative medium to serve in her community. With her person-centered approach, Lynne facilitates human potential in the client’s, students and community members she serves. Success in both occupational therapy practice and quilting require a holistic understanding that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Facilitating the Creative Process Through Collaboration

Jennifer K. Fortuna MS, OTRL

Miles Parker Scharfenberg, an artist based in Richland, MI, provided the cover art for the Fall 2019 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Late Night Fireworks” is a 30” x 40” painting made from acrylic on canvas (see Figure 1). Born 15 weeks premature, Miles’ multiple health impairments have made it difficult to engage in meaningful occupations such as painting. With support from his mother Carol, occupational therapy students and members of the community, Miles creates colorful abstract expressionist paintings. Collaboration is part of his creative process. In this fifth anniversary issue of OJOT, Occupation and the Artist is following up with a past artist for the first time. Over the last five years, Miles has further developed his skill and abilities as a painter while discovering his potential as an artist.
Promoting Healing with Therapeutic Use of Clay

Jennifer Fortuna

Alice McCall Smith, occupational therapist and artist based in North Carolina, provided the cover art for the Summer 2019 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) (Figure 1). The piece, titled “Mother and Child,” is an 8-1/4” tall sculpture made from clay. Alice grew up on a hill sheep farm in the Scottish Highlands. She has used many of the skills learned on the farm in everyday life and in occupational therapy practice. After being diagnosed and treated for depression, sculpting helped Alice to cope with challenging emotions. Therapeutic use of clay was a meaningful part of her healing process.
The Art and Process of Wood Carving as Meaningful Occupation

Jennifer Fortuna

Dr. Leonard G. Trujillo, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, occupational therapy Professor and Chair Emeritus based in North Carolina, provided the cover art for the Spring 2019 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) (Figure 1). The piece, titled “Life’s Struggles” is a relief carving made from butternut wood. Dr. Trujillo enjoys carving lifelike images that depict previous travels and his love of nature. His carvings are sculpted from a solid plank of wood, yet they provide the illusion of a three-dimensional form. Dr. Trujillo’s body of work reflects a lifetime of learning and engagement in the art and process of wood carving as meaningful occupation.
The Road to Resilience: Traveling the Path Less Followed to Realize What is Possible

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

Dr. Bernadette Mineo, Ph.D., OTR/L, an occupational therapist and mixed media artist based in Portland, Oregon, provided the cover art for the Winter 2019 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) (Figure 1). The piece, titled “Paper Dolls” (2009), consists of 37 individual paper doll sculptures made from mixed media. Dr. Mineo believes being an artist is about connecting with your creative heart. Her art is about being playful, challenging yourself and setting up experiments. Engaging in a daily creative art practice has brought joy to Dr. Mineo’s life. Art has empowered her to take risks, build resilience and discover what is possible. By sharing her daily art practice with others, Dr. Mineo aims to promote creative solutions and hope in the face of challenging situations.
Integrating Art and Narrative to Enhance Quality of Life in Palliative Care

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

Lacie Lee Wallace, a mixed-media artist from Wheeling, West Virginia, is featured on the cover of the Fall 2018 issue of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). The photograph depicts Lacie holding a self-portrait painted by artist CeCey Rose. Lacie’s physical appearance in photograph is strikingly different from the woman featured in the painting. The portrait was created four years before Lacie was diagnosed with advanced stage colon cancer. In the year following the diagnosis, Lacie lost nearly 100-pounds as the result of an aggressive treatment regimen. When the palliative care team at West Virginia University Memorial Hospital launched a clinical study on narrative medicine, Lacie was one of the first patients to participate. Throughout her illness experience, Lacie found comfort in sharing both her art and life story. Lacie’s personal narrative made it clear just how meaningful art was in her life. Narrative medicine empowered Lacie’s palliative care team to improve patient care and enhance her quality of life.
Overcoming Barriers by Doing Things Differently

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

Tom Yendell, an artist based in Hampshire England, provided the cover art for the Summer 2018 edition of The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT). “Silk Flowers” is a mouth painting made from acrylic on silk. Born a bilateral congenital amputee, Tom has learned to use his toes the same ways others use their hands. Tom relies little on aids and adaptations in everyday life. He believes learning to do things your own way is empowering. As a world-renowned mouth and foot painter, Tom is a living example of how barriers can be overcome by doing things differently. Through art and charitable works, Tom applies his creative energy, organizational skill, and determination to inspire others to live life to the fullest.
DisArt: Redefining the Construct of Participation

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

DisArt, an arts and culture organization based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provided the cover art for the Spring 2018 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) (Figure 1). The piece, a somatic sculpture by Petra Kuppers, was featured at the 2015 DisArt Festival in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Kuppers is a Disability culture activist and community performance artist who connects people, both disabled and able-bodied, in public spaces. DisArt’s mission is to increase the participation of Disabled people in our communities through Disability Art exhibitions, cutting edge public events and consultation. In a recent interview, DisArt Co-Founders and Executive Directors, Dr. Christopher Smit, PhD, and Jill Vyn, MSW share how DisArt is redefining the construct of participation for people with and without disabilities.
The Art and Science of Occupation as Therapy

Jennifer Fortuna

Ashley Woo Lee, an occupational therapy student based in Loma Linda, California, provided the cover art for the Winter 2017 issue of the Open Journal of Occupational Therapy (OJOT) (Figure 1). The piece, titled “Tree of Life” is a “11 x 14” drawing made from mixed medium. As a child living in Korea, drawing was a favorite pastime for Ashley. After her family relocated to the United States, art became Ashley’s primary means for self-expression. When a career in art was not an option, the field of occupational therapy satisfied Ashley’s artistic and scientific interests. In a recent interview, Ashley shared how she uses her talents to help others participate in meaningful occupations.
Movement Without Boundaries

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

Johnson Simon is an artist based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Johnson always wanted to become a dancer. Born with cerebral palsy, physical limitations make it difficult for Johnson to coordinate his body movements. Determined not to let his disability keep him from pursuing his dreams, Johnson decided to study body movement and motion to learn more about what his body could not do. For Johnson, painting is all about self-discovery. Through use of vibrant colors and bold strokes, Johnson’s expressionist paintings evoke movement and motion. Occupational therapy helped Johnson discover his artistic abilities. The occupation of painting has empowered him to move without boundaries.
Building Bridges Through Meaningful Occupation

Jennifer Fortuna MS, OTR/L

Mary Block, MS, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist and sculptor based in Illinois. Mary currently works in a school-based setting and owns a small private clinic. She founded Sculpture Bridge, an occupation-based program to address the needs of the youth who have outgrown clinic-based services. Occupational therapy and sculpting have been in Mary’s life for years. She works with a variety of mediums and has been commissioned to create sculptures for both public organizations and private homes over the last ten years. When competing paradigms altered Mary’s career path, the field of occupational therapy helped her to shape a new worldview. In uncertain times, it was meaningful occupation that empowered Mary to start over again.
The Healing Nature of Occupation

Jennifer Fortuna

Moses Kai Hamilton was born in a small beach house on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii. When a tragic accident left Hamilton paralyzed, he turned to mouth painting for comfort. Participation in a meaningful occupation helped Hamilton find his path in life. Over time, he developed his own techniques, use of color, and a signature impressionist style. Painting nurtured Hamilton’s soul. As a result, his art grew better and sweeter.
The Reciprocal Relationship Between Art and Occupational Therapy Practice

Jennifer Fortuna

Susan Burwash, Ph.D., OTR/L is an occupational therapy professor and artist based in Washington State. She currently serves as Chair and Professor for the Occupational Therapy Program at Eastern Washington University. To Professor Burwash, lamp work glass bead making is the perfect blend of art and science, spiritual and practical. Professor Burwash believes the relationship between art and occupational therapy practice is reciprocal. Art can be used to explore interests, improve social skills, and build relationships. Creative occupations, such as jewelry making, can help people transform their identities. Art creates balance between traditional medicine and personal medicine—those meaningful activities that give life purpose. Professor Burwash’s personal medicine is making beautiful things that can be given away.