KU Medical Center
Gratitude
The artist’s name- Rose Olesen
The title of the work- Gratitude
The medium of the work- Charcoal and Graphite
The size of the work- 26”x20”
This portrait of the patient and the nurse titled, “Gratitude” is my interpretation of “Art in Caring.” The patient is tearfully reaching out to caress the nurse’s face showing gratitude for the compassionate care she has been receiving. Nursing is an “art” in caring, and nurses have a unique connection with their patients. Many patients feel overwhelming gratitude in return. You see, “Art in Caring” is a two-way street.
My husband was a health system patient twice in 2020/2021. We experienced the kindness and caring that makes the University of Kansas Health System a special place. While he was hospitalized, I was laid off from my job. Our positive experience led me to apply for a position with the health system.
The theme goes beyond the patient bedside. I’ve worked many places, and none have lived their core values like the University of Kansas Health System. Compassion, integrity, and excellence are visible at every turn. Everyone with whom I’ve worked truly cares for their coworkers as well as being patient-centered in their work.
My last art training was in 8th-grade. When the call for artists was announced, I felt the pull to participate. The fact that I haven’t drawn in 34+ years didn’t matter.
At almost 68; I realize that one day (not soon!), the woman in my portrait will be me, and I know that at the University of Kansas Medical Center, I will receive the same care and feel the same gratitude the woman in my drawing depicts.
Gratitude
The artist’s name- Rose Olesen
The title of the work- Gratitude
The medium of the work- Charcoal and Graphite
The size of the work- 26”x20”
This portrait of the patient and the nurse titled, “Gratitude” is my interpretation of “Art in Caring.” The patient is tearfully reaching out to caress the nurse’s face showing gratitude for the compassionate care she has been receiving. Nursing is an “art” in caring, and nurses have a unique connection with their patients. Many patients feel overwhelming gratitude in return. You see, “Art in Caring” is a two-way street.
My husband was a health system patient twice in 2020/2021. We experienced the kindness and caring that makes the University of Kansas Health System a special place. While he was hospitalized, I was laid off from my job. Our positive experience led me to apply for a position with the health system.
The theme goes beyond the patient bedside. I’ve worked many places, and none have lived their core values like the University of Kansas Health System. Compassion, integrity, and excellence are visible at every turn. Everyone with whom I’ve worked truly cares for their coworkers as well as being patient-centered in their work.
My last art training was in 8th-grade. When the call for artists was announced, I felt the pull to participate. The fact that I haven’t drawn in 34+ years didn’t matter.
At almost 68; I realize that one day (not soon!), the woman in my portrait will be me, and I know that at the University of Kansas Medical Center, I will receive the same care and feel the same gratitude the woman in my drawing depicts.