Visit to Sister Kenny

43rd Annual Art Show by artists with disabilities
04/20/2006--Sister Kenny® Rehabilitation Institute's 43rd annual Art Show by Artists with Disabilities kicks off with an opening night reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 20 on the second floor of the Sister Kenny Pavilion of Abbott Northwestern Hospital, 800 E. 28th St. in Minneapolis. The free, public art show runs through May 17th and is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year's event showcases 349 works from more than 200 artists with physical and mental disabilities. As in year's past, much of the artwork is available to be purchased, with 75 percent of the proceeds going to support individual artists.
"We are honored to once again have the opportunity to present this event," said Richard Sturgeon, MD, vice president of operations for Abbott Northwestern Hospital. "Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute's mission is about helping individuals progress toward their personal best, and this event is an extension of that. The artists are awe-inspiring, and their artwork is eye-popping."
Many of the artists will attend the April 20th opening night reception. The event, which is free and open to the public, will include an appearance by Mrs. Maine 2006 Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino, whose father was a patient at the Institute, light refreshments and recognition for the best artwork in six categories: graphic, watercolor, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and oils and acrylics. For more information about the art show or the opening reception, call 612-863-4466.
Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute is a nationally renowned rehabilitation facility dedicated to restoring and enhancing the quality of life for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, work or sports-related injuries and neurological or muscular disorders including arthritis, multiple sclerosis, speech disorders and chronic pain. Sites are located at five hospitals in the Twin Cities area as well as at 18 outpatient clinics.
Minneapolis-based Abbott Northwestern Hospital is part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, a non-profit network of hospitals, clinics and other health care services. Abbott Northwestern is found online at www.abbottnorthwestern.com.