News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Article featuring artist David Masterson’s artwork has been accepted for publication in Art & Health: An

International Journal for Research, Policy and Practice

Washington DC April 2024

Arts & Health

We are thrilled to announce that “A Visit to David’s World: Exploring the Impact of a Passive Art

Intervention on Hospitalized Children’s Wellbeing, Engagement, and Joy” featuring the artwork of David

Masterson has been accepted for publication in Arts & Health: An International Journal for Research,

Policy, and Practice.

The groundbreaking study by Dr. Judy Rollins showcases Masterson’s unparalleled artistic talent and

innovative approach to art creation called Organic Art—art that “grows” over time by the addition of new

images. A personal touch is layered into the art by a resident artist when children aren’t looking, resulting

in an exciting surprise when they view the painting again at a later time. Study results found that children

felt special and demonstrated high levels of well-being, involvement, and joy. The experience brightened

their mood, reinforced a positive identity, and stimulated their imagination. We believe that children in

environments that require long-term stays, such as burn, transplant, and rehabilitation units may benefit

most from a “visit” to David’s World.

The original paintings are massive in size (up to 8×10 feet) and are suitable for hospital hallways and

other areas with a large expanse of space. However, the paintings (original and altered) also can be

successfully displayed on tablets and taken to individual children’s rooms, which was the case in this

study as children were unable to leave their rooms due to isolation restrictions.

The artwork chosen for the publication reflects Masterson’s profound exploration of various themes,

including the intersection of nature and technology, the human condition, and the ever-changing

dynamics of society. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of artistic

composition, Masterson’s paintings evoke emotions and challenge conventional perspectives in a very

special environment.

The inclusion of Masterson’s artwork in Arts & Health further solidifies his position as a visionary artist at

the forefront of contemporary art. The renowned journal’s recognition of his artwork and concept of

Organic Art is a testament to “Purpose built” art that is designed to promote positive outcomes in

healthcare settings, and is often intended to challenge and provoke, in addition to being soothing and

comforting. By evaluating the emotional and physiological responses to this artwork in a hospital setting,

Dr. Rollins’ research has the potential to transform how art in healthcare settings is designed and used to

effectively support optimal health and healing.

“I am honored to have had the opportunity to enter “David’s World” and explore the impact of David

Masterson’s artwork with seriously ill hospitalized children,” said Dr. Judy Rollins, researcher at

Georgetown University in Washington, DC. “His idea of Organic Art that changes goes back almost ten

years when he tested the concept himself at Shriners Burn unit in Galveston, Texas. His tenacity and

prowess to find someone that could conduct this in a clinical setting makes him a true trailblazer in the

industry.”

The publication of Masterson’s artwork provides a platform for both healthcare practitioners and

researchers to delve into the depths of this artistic project. This recognition also serves as an inspiration

to emerging artists and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

For more information about David Masterson and his artwork, please visit [davidwmasterson.com].

About David Masterson

David Masterson is an internationally recognized artist known for his captivating and thought-provoking

abstract artworks at a large scale. With a deep passion for exploring the human experience and the

world around us, Masterson’s paintings offer a unique perspective on contemporary society. His work

has been exhibited in renowned juried shows and has received critical acclaim ( Best of Show) for his

innovative approach and artistic excellence.

About Judy Rollins

Judy Rollins, PhD, RN, brings nearly 40 years of arts and healthcare experience in research, consulting,

program development, and education. She is Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Family

Medicine and the Department of Pediatrics at Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington,

DC; a Scholar at Nova Institute for Health, Baltimore, Maryland; and editor of Pediatric Nursing. Her

major publications include Meeting Children’s Psychosocial Needs Across the Healthcare Continuum

(2005, 2018, 3rd ed in press), Therapeutic Activities for Children and Teens Coping with Health

Issues (2011), and ‘Purpose-built’ Art in Hospitals: Art with Intent (2021). Dr. Rollins has developed

programming for adults, children, families, and healthcare staff in hospitals, hospice care, and the

community. [judy.rollins@georgetown.edu]