For more than a decade, the School of Visual Arts and the Valetudo Association have held a series of public exhibitions of inspiring artwork, ranging from painting and photography to animation and illustration. This year, as every year, SVA and Valetudo celebrate the restorative power of art, and the joy that comes from experiencing it with others.

Since 2010, as part of the Journées du Patrimoine, the annual celebration of Europe’s cultural heritage, the School of Visual Arts and the Valetudo Association have mounted joint exhibitions to promote the therapeutic value of making art. The exhibitions, each with its own theme, are presented in the Romanesque cloister of Saint-Paul de Mausole, part of a historic monastery in Saint-Rémy de Provence where Valetudo operates a psychiatric clinic. In the late 19th century, Vincent van Gogh was treated for over a year at Saint-Paul and, as a patient, was encouraged to paint—in effect, a form of art therapy. The Starry Night, Irises and many other celebrated works made during his stay demonstrate that the period at the clinic was one of his most productive.

Recently, Dr. Jean-Marc Boulon, director of Valetudo, directed the restoration of Saint-Paul to its appearance during the period when Van Gogh was there. Under his guidance the refurbishment was completed in time for the inauguration of the 2022 exhibition, aptly entitled “Enduring Heritage.”

“Living Heritage,” marks the 12th year of a transatlantic partnership that SVA Executive Vice President Anthony P. Rhodes originated in an exchange of exhibitions with Dr. Jean-Marc Boulon, director of Valetudo. This year’s works were made by SVA alumni practicing within the disciplines of fine art, illustration, photography, animation, video and computer art. They exude a life-affirming spirit of continuity that is fitting to this year’s theme while also celebrating more than a decade of inspiring creative collaboration.

Exhibition

Living Heritage

Saint-Rémy