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The 5th AbbVie Art Project 'PERSPECTIVES'

On July 29, 2023, AbbVie Inc. hosted the award ceremony for the 5th AbbVie Art Project, titled 'PERSPECTIVES.' This initiative invites patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases to express their personal perspectives through art, fitting under the theme of 'Living with Diseases. My New Possibilities.' This year's exhibition features 126 submissions from individuals aged 6 to 88, showcasing their thoughts and emotions as they navigate challenges related to their health.

The art pieces, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and craft works, embody the intricacies of living with chronic conditions. By giving patients the opportunity to express themselves creatively, AbbVie aims to foster understanding and support for individuals facing such health battles. Guided by a thorough selection process involving a panel of 13 judges, the awards were distributed, highlighting the exceptional talent and creativity displayed in this year's submissions.

As a representation of the impact of this project, prominent artist Asuka Sakuma shared, 'The quality and diversity of the artworks this year exceeded expectations. The participant demographics were broader and more inclusive than ever, which demonstrates the growing awareness of this initiative in society.' The judging panel awarded a Grand Prize, an Excellence Award, three Jury Prizes, and five Honorable Mentions, illustrating the depth of creativity and emotional expression in the submissions.

Among the award winners were notable entries such as:

• - Grand Prize: Takako Ichikawa, 82, for her piece 'The Dream of Paper Airplanes, To Go Further' from Nagano Prefecture.
• - Excellence Award: Ayano Koga, 6, for her artwork 'The Sea Inside My Stomach' from Kanagawa Prefecture.
• - Jury Prize: J.A. (pseudonym), 17, with 'My Own Light and Shadow' from Kanagawa Prefecture.

This year saw a remarkable response, with 126 artworks submitted which is the highest to date. The age range of participants was broad, including individuals from young children to those in their 80s. This vigorous participation reflects the societal shift towards inclusivity and understanding of health challenges faced by many. Asuka Sakuma emphasized the power of art in conveying emotions, stating that engagement in creative processes can inspire and uplift others who may share similar struggles.

The project serves a significant purpose: to educate the public regarding autoimmune inflammatory diseases, which include conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis, among others. These diseases arise from an imbalance in immune responses, leading to inflammation and health challenges. By sharing personal narratives through art, patients contribute to dispelling misconceptions and fostering empathy within the community.

AbbVie remains committed to this cause, ensuring ongoing support for artistic expression among patients. The awarded pieces, along with all other entries, are now displayed in an online gallery accessible via AbbVie's official website. This digital exhibition allows a broader audience to engage with the artwork and the profound stories behind each piece, encouraging conversations about chronic illnesses and the human experience.

For more information about the AbbVie Art Project, the featured artists, and their captivating works, visit AbbVie. The project not only showcases artistry but also aims to bridge the gap between patients and society, fostering a greater understanding of their experiences and hopes for the future.

As the 5th AbbVie Art Project continues, AbbVie looks forward to nurturing creativity and compassion within the community, and hopes to inspire future participants to share their perspectives through the transformative power of art.