05/09/2002
(HARTFORD, Conn.) -- Metal sculptures by Karen Rossi, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center's artist in residence, will be on display in the rotunda of the hospital's Patient Care Tower from June 6 through July 9.  The art exhibition's opening, on Sunday, June 6, coincides with the Saint Francis Care Regional Cancer Center's observance of the 12th annual National Cancer Survivor's Day. This celebration was initiated in 1987 by Richard Bloch, co-founder of H&R Block Inc., who was diagnosed in 1978 with lung cancer that was, at the time, considered terminal.
"Cancer Survivor's Day celebrates the joy of life, which is the inspiration for my body of work," observes Rossi. "I'm excited to be a part of this day, which honors the triumph of the human spirit over disease."
Rossi's playful sculptures have been called "tongue-in-cheek, yet lyrical." They frequently feature angels and other figures in flight, an outgrowth of her first exhibition, which took place during the 1981 Christmas season. In researching early American folk art for seasonal decorations, Rossi says she became enthralled with the figure of the herald angel Gabriel and how he was portrayed in metal.
"I'm now known for flying people in my work, and I call them Gabriels," she said.
Saint Francis' artist in residence program is an outgrowth of the art collection established by the hospital in 1996, when it dedicated the Patient Care Tower. The 10-story building features more than 200 original works, including paintings, quilts, ceramics, photographs, weavings and sculptures.
A 20-year veteran of the local and international arts scene and the owner of Rossi Metal Sculpture, in Windsor Locks, Rossi has had works exhibited throughout the world. Four of her works are included in Saint Francis' collection. Others are in the collections of Saks Fifth Avenue, the Hartford Courant and the White House.
As the hospital's artist in residence, Rossi helps to create ways in which art plays a role in healing for Saint Francis' patients and their families. She currently is working with the staff of the hospital's oncology unit to create "Recipes for Survivorship," an activity book for patients and families.
Works to be shown during the exhibition will include wall installations and a mobile featuring butterflies inspired by the Cancer Center's annual release of butterflies on Cancer Survivor's Day. The butterfly release also inspired Rossi to create "Garden Party," a limited edition print, which will be on sale for $20 in the Saint Francis Women's Auxiliary Gift Shop during the exhibition.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of works during the show will benefit the Cancer Center. Show hours will be 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call 860-714-5602.
Founded in 1897, Saint Francis is licensed for 617 acute inpatient beds and 65 bassinets and is the largest Catholic hospital in New England.
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