UH Cancer Center to host free ‘Healing Through Art’ event

News admin June 18, 2026 0 Comments

UH Cancer Center to host free ‘Healing Through Art’ event

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A free public workshop explores how those affected by cancer can use art to express healing, resilience and well-being.

The “Healing Through Art” workshop takes place on Saturday, July 18, at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center from 9 to 11 a.m., hosted by the center’s Sunsan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community (Community, Awareness, Research and Emotional Well-Being).

UH Cancer Center said the workshop will feature practitioners representing a variety of cultural and artistic traditions and therapeutic approaches.

The event will feature haiku reflection and meditation, music, visual arts, lei-making and crafting.

“Art has a unique ability to connect people to hope, meaning and community,” said Peter Hirano, husband of the late Susan C. Hirano, founder of the CARE community. “Our ‘Healing Through Art’ event reflects the UH Cancer Center’s effort to support the whole person.”

There will also be presentations on research supporting art therapy.

The cancer center said research has shown that art therapy and other creative modalities can help reduce anxiety, depression, and distress among people affected by cancer.

The cancer center is Hawaii’s only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center and it “recognizes the importance of addressing the emotional, social and cultural dimensions of health,” said Dr. Naoto T. Ueno, director of the UH Cancer Center.

Ueno, a researcher and clinician who is also a two-time cancer survivor, said, “Cancer care extends far beyond the clinic.”

“Programs like our ‘Healing Through Art’ event help create spaces where people can find comfort, express themselves, and build resilience alongside others who understand their experiences,” he added.

The event can be attended in person or on Zoom.

Registration for the event is due by July 11 and can be done online here.

“Susan believed that no one facing cancer should feel alone or without hope,” Peter Hirano said. “We hope that this gathering will help people understand that there can be many pathways to healing and connection.”