If executed with care, the arts have the potential to truly innovate and revolutionize the health care system. Indeed, the arts can be a form of universal language that can speak to common issues about human conditions; including disability, challenge, and empowerment.
Don’t miss Holland Bloorview’s annual research symposium which, through a special dance performance, knowledge translation, and a powerful art exhibition will raise new and thought-provoking conversations about the role of the arts in innovating paediatric health and contributing toward a global language.
The 13th Annual BRI Symposium will take place on Thursday, November 29. The theme this year is Advancing the global impact of childhood disability research: Driving forward discoveries for inclusive and meaningful life-changing impact.
Learn more and register to reserve your spot.
“Adapt, stay positive, and learn to do things your own way”: Shattering normative dancing cultures
Luca "Lazylegz" Patuelli
No excuses, no limits to body movement. That’s the motto of Canadian-born hip-hop dancer Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli, who was born with arthrogryposis, a neuromuscular disorder affecting the bones and joints of the body.
Despite facing physical challenges, Luca learned at an early age about the power of adapting positively to any situation. Over the past 13 years, he has developed his career as a professional dancer by competing and performing in a wide variety of international dance events such as Breakin’ Convention and World of Dance and Hip Hop International. He has had opportunities to appear on both Canadian and American media, including the Ellen Degeneres Show and So You Think You Can Dance Canada.
Combining his passion for dance with knowledge of engaging the masses, Luca has become a strong advocate for inclusion and integration as he aims to bring people of all abilities together through the power of dance. In 2015, the Governor General of Canada recognized Luca along with partners with a Meritorious Service Medal for their dedication and commitment to creating a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.
See some videos of Luca’s dancing here.
Telling My Tale: Disrupting silos between health care and art
Twentieth century European artist Pablo Picasso once said that “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up”. Traditionally, the arts were seen as “closer to childhood”. Telling My Tale miniature art gallery aims to re-think these traditional notions by fusing health, research, and art in a unique showcase taking place at Holland Bloorview.
On November 29, Telling My Tale will seek to disrupt the silos that currently exist between health care and art. Through one-of-a-kind art works based on personal experiences, the gallery will generate thoughtful and critical conversations about the role of the arts in the production and dissemination of new knowledge in health and health care environments. It will feature original art works by young people with disabilities and chronic illnesses from Holland Bloorview, research studies, and the community at large.
The benefits of the arts for children and youth with disability are numerous, including fostering a sense of control and mastery and reduced perceptions of isolation. Unfortunately, children and young people with disability are vastly underrepresented in the arts and face numerous barriers to artistic engagement.
Indeed, great strides need to be made to ensure that the arts are available to those that need it most. In partnership with Holland Bloorview and the University of Toronto, the miniature art gallery will take the audience through an in-depth journey into what it means to have a disability in a contemporary culture as a young person navigating the health care system.
Telling My Tale will be open from November 27 to 30 and take place on the 1st floor, room 1E-195.
