Throughout UK HealthCare and the College of Medicine, a varied and thoughtful collection of more than 4,000 works of art is featured in lobbies, hallways, exam rooms, and outdoor spaces. These pieces showcase creativity and contribute to a peaceful environment for patients, families, and health care staff.
A significant portion of the collection is made by UK physicians, nurses, and administrators, providing an outlet for expression and a chance to share artwork with colleagues and patients alike. One contributing artist is Alba Morales, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics and pediatric endocrinologist, who has practiced with UK for 11 years.
In her free time, Dr. Morales paints acrylic portraits of family, friends, coworkers and pets. She also occasionally uses pencils and watercolors. Her paintings have been featured throughout UK’s campus, most notably in her primary office of UK HealthCare – Turfland.
“Faces are my favorite thing to paint. I’ve always had an interest in artwork but, during the pandemic, my painting really picked up as a way of relaxing,” said Dr. Morales.
At the Turfland clinic, more than 20 of Dr. Morales’ acrylic portraits decorate the internal office walls. Each one is a likeness of fellow physicians and administrative staff. She’s also featured in the Kentucky Clinic.
“I started drawing friends and family from photos as practice. A staff member offered me a picture, and when I was happy with my painting, we talked and agreed to decorate the office with it,” she said.
In the past five years, Dr. Morales’ skill and experience as a painter have increased significantly. She practices daily whenever possible and often watches instructional videos on YouTube, TikTok or the BBC. Some of her paintings are inspired by the work of Frida Kahlo, notable for their vibrant colors and focus on facial expressions.
Morales’ artwork has caught the eyes of other UK staff, such as Renee Gallagher, MEd, the administrative operations coordinator for the UK College of Medicine Office for Organizational Well-Being.
“I went to pick up a prescription at the pharmacy, and that’s where I saw Dr. Morales’ artwork. I saw her placard and thought she would be a great person to reach out to about leading an art stroll on campus,” said Gallagher.
“We have a lot to offer at UK. The artwork is not only for patients. It’s for all of us who work here in this environment,” said Gallagher. “That’s how the art stroll came about. It was my way of trying to connect with colleagues, build relationships, and make everyone feel supported within the workplace.”
Morales hosted an art stroll in Feb. as part of OWB’s Arts for Well-Being in Academic Medicine program. “I loved it,” said Dr. Morales. “It was a nice break from routine, great for relaxation and meeting new people.”
“People get so busy, but it’s okay to take a moment and build relationships on campus. This is just one way to use the investments UK has put into beautiful infrastructure and honor the learners, faculty, or staff who created some amazing art,” said Gallagher.