The Medical Pavilion lobby at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) has been adorned by four-dimensional Islamic masterpieces this Ramadan, with hopes to infuse the spirit of the Holy month, and to aid the healing process for patients.
The ‘Spiritual Shadows’ exhibition, conceived and created by talented duo Bassam Al Selawi, and his wife, Maysoon Masalha, showcases a beautiful array of sculptures, featuring Arabic calligraphy. The pieces creatively manipulate light to project complementary Islamic imagery on the walls in the form of shadows.
The intricate sculptures interrelate with the subsequent shadows to create a powerful visual narrative, illustrated in a unique four-dimensional fashion, and will be on display between 15 June and 15 July.
“Our facility is more than a place for medical treatment. SKMC brings people together and comforts them in both challenging and happy times,” said Dr. Aref Al Shehhi, Deputy CEO at SKMC.
“The Holy month of Ramadan is a special time where people feel more spiritual, and the community unites on a more profound level. The ‘Spiritual Shadows’ exhibition is an initiative by SKMC to instil the spirit of Ramadan throughout the facility patients, staff, and visitors,” Dr. Al Shehhi added.
The use of art in hospitals has gained immense attention from researchers on a global level in recent years. Researchers from the University of Bari in Italy have found a significant reduction in physical pain in patients who are looking at aesthetically appealing art, while extensive global research indicates non-abstract art in hospitals can also significantly reduce stress levels in patients.
“Fine art is good medicine. It comforts, elevats the spirit, and affirms life and hope. Art in a healthcare setting, combined with outstanding care and service, creates an ambience that encourages healing and supports the work of medical professionals. This Ramadan, we are confident that the exquisite art pieces by Bassam Al Selawi and Maysoon Masalha will bring an air of hope, and will help aid the healing process for our valued patients,” said Engineer Salama Al-Haj, Deputy COO at SKMC.
Both Al Selawi and Masalha hold Visual Arts degrees from Yarmouk University in Jordan, and have advanced their careers with an Educational Rehabilitation (EP) certification from UNRWA Educational Development Center. The gifted couple has appeared in various exhibitions and workshops in the UAE.
SKMC, which is managed by Cleveland Clinic, is a SEHA Health System facility.
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