Art instructor's work offers subtle healing effects

By  Carla Chlebanowski
For the Courier-Post

Michael Chlebanowski accepted an invitation from the Riverland Artists Group to display his paintings at the Hannibal Clinic during the month of May.  Riverland Artist’s Group, whose focus is the creation of visual art, sponsors Art in Public Spaces, a program that brings fresh artwork to prevalent public locations in Hannibal.
This is Chlebanowski’s second time to display his at the Hannibal Clinic.  “There is a growing awareness within the health services industry that artwork and color aid in wellness.  Looking at a painting, in effect, can carry one off (in thought and feeling) to a different place.  One may be transported, so to speak, and where the mind goes - the body follows,” Chlebanowski said.  According to recent studies on color theory, color has a direct effect on a person’s mind, mood and body.  A good example of this would be viewing a sunrise or sunset and experiencing a feeling of awe.  The response was stimulated by the vision.  “We can comprehend that color and composition stimulate the viewer, when we see the person respond to the art.  It is a powerful force for good when it is well received,” said Chlebanowski.
In a BBC News health article dated Jan. 20, 2002, Dr James Nobbs, from the Color Chemistry Department at Leeds University (UK), is quoted as saying: “Until now, how people responded emotionally to color was the domain of artists and designers who could not substantiate their claims in scientific terms.”  According to Chlebanowski, “Artists have an innate sense of the effectiveness of color.  Therefore a skilled artist can evoke an emotional response of appreciation or revolt.”  In other words, artists instinctively create what science would explain, and according to Nobbs, “But now it’s proven. Color affects our emotions.”
In agreement with both arguments of art and science the study of Feng Shui promotes that yin colors bring about healing and relaxation, while yang colors provide enthusiasm and motivation.  “Persons who understand the effect colors have on them can benefit by simply exposing themselves to art that inspires and promotes goodwill.  This self-directed wellness is available to anyone, and seems to be the accidental good-fortune provided through the art in public spaces program.” Chlebanowski said.
New and recent works by Chlebanowski include landscapes that incorporate lush greens.  According to Michelle Normand, author of The Meaning of Color, Art as Therapy Feng Shui experts taut the healing and restorative powers of the color green, often using different shades to maximize its healing effects. Green is a most restful color to the human eye.  It directly relates to nature, and promotes a feeling of safety.  In his most recent works, “Mark Twain Lake Cliff” and “Phare en Plein Air,” Chlebanowski, who is an instructor of Art at Hannibal-LaGrange College, comprises the use of both yin and yang colors into his palette.  Incorporating his knowledge of color theory effortlessly into his paintings, Chlebanowski’s use of purples emit a mixture of stability and energy that just make you feel good. “I’m glad I was given the gift of being an artist, because it helps and it heals people.  And whether you understand it or not, you can benefit by just enjoying it!”
Other artists exhibiting this month include Cindy Logan whose art is on display in the lobby of HNB Bank, Main Street location and Mary Beth Baudendistel, whose art is on display at Hannibal Free Public Library.
To learn more about Riverland Artists Group or Art in Public Spaces, contact Nancy Beckner (573) 221-0806.