More than a dozen children were honored recently for their work as artists, musicians and filmmakers at the fifth annual Creative Arts Festival. The event was hosted by the UC Davis Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department and Baykids Studios. Families gathered at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center auditorium to celebrate their children and the hope and healing that that the arts can provide.
"The Creative Arts Festival is a celebration of creativity and imagination in all art forms. It showcases the power of collaboration across our team who help patients share their stories through video, art and music," said Diana Sundberg, Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy manager. "We're so proud of what the patients have created, and it's truly a joy to celebrate their talent and self-expression."
For the past nine years, Baykids Studios, a nonprofit organization that empowers children with serious illnesses to express themselves through the power of filmmaking, has partnered with the child life team to provide a filmmaking outlet for patients. UC Davis music and art therapists also provide support for pediatric patients through the visual arts and music.
This out-of-this-world event showcased live musical performances, a fashion show, a gallery of artwork, and a screening of films, made by children during their hospitalization. This star-studded event included a visit from Star Wars characters and R2D2 droids from CAUSEplay for Hope.
Each artist received a Greatest Davis award, which included a certificate and gold statuette.
"The annual Creative Arts Festival is a vital part of the children's artistic journey," said Mimi Rauschendorf, executive director of Baykids Studios. "Patients create their films within the hospital. Presenting their work to an audience elevates their status from patient to artist. Sharing personal stories takes great courage, and the festival offers a supportive and safe space to do so. Plus, it's a fun and inspiring event for the whole family!"
The following were some of the films shown:
